Electric bicycle

ABSTRACT

A bicycle includes a frame, a storage compartment, a battery pack, a pedal assist unit, and a lighting system. The frame includes a head tube, a stem, a down tube, a central hub, and a pair of chain stays. The central hub defines an internal cavity. The down tube and the central hub cooperatively define a battery opening connected to the internal cavity. The storage compartment includes a door positioned to selectively enclose an opening in the down tube. The battery pack is releasably received by the battery opening. The pedal assist unit is disposed within the internal cavity. The lighting system includes one or more taillights integrated into the chain stays, a conspicuity lamp integrated into the head tube, and/or a headlight integrated into to at least one of the stem or the head tube.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/874,663, filed Jul. 16, 2019, which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

With the advent of suitable battery storage for bicycles, electricbicycles (or “e-bikes”) are becoming more mainstream. Such electricbicycles typically include onboard power storage and a motor (e.g., apedal assist or pedelec that provides a motor-assisted drivetrain toassist an operator with propelling the bicycle; or a throttle operatedelectric bicycle that propels the bicycle forward without any additionalpedaling from the rider).

SUMMARY

One embodiment relate to a bicycle. The bicycle includes a frame, astorage compartment, a battery pack, a pedal assist unit, and a lightingsystem. The frame includes a head tube, a stem pivotally coupled to thehead tube, a down tube coupled to the head tube and defining acompartment opening, a central hub coupled to the down tube opposite thehead tube, and a pair of chain stays extending rearward of the centralhub. The central hub defines an internal cavity. The down tube and thecentral hub cooperatively define a battery opening connected to theinternal cavity. The pair of chain stays include (i) a right chain stayterminating with a right dropout and (ii) a left chain stay terminatingwith a left dropout. At least one of (a) the right dropout defines aright recess or (b) the left dropout defines a left recess. The storagecompartment includes a door pivotally coupled to the down tube andpositioned to selectively enclose the compartment opening, and areceptacle disposed within the interior of the frame and positionedbeneath the compartment opening. The battery pack is releasably receivedby the battery opening and at least partially recessed within theinternal cavity of the central hub. The pedal assist unit is disposedwithin the internal cavity of the central hub and powered by the batterypack. The lighting system is connected to the battery pack with wiresextending internally through the frame. The lighting system includes atleast one of (i) at least one of (a) a right taillight disposed withinthe right recess or (b) a left taillight disposed within the leftrecess, (ii) a conspicuity lamp integrated into the head tube, or (iii)a headlight integrated into to at least one of the stem or the headtube.

Another embodiment relate to a bicycle. The bicycle includes a frame, adoor, a battery pack, and a pedal assist unit. The frame includes a headtube, a down tube coupled to the head tube and defining a compartmentopening, a central hub coupled to an end of the down tube opposite thehead tube, and a pair of chain stays extending rearward of the centralhub. The central hub defines an internal cavity. The down tube and thecentral hub cooperatively define a battery opening connected to theinternal cavity. The pair of chain stays include (i) a right chain stayterminating with a right dropout and (ii) a left chain stay terminatingwith a left dropout. The door is pivotally coupled to the down tube andpositioned to selectively enclose the compartment opening. The batterypack is releasably received by the battery opening and at leastpartially recessed within the internal cavity of the central hub. Thepedal assist unit is disposed within the internal cavity of the centralhub and powered by the battery pack.

Another embodiment relate to a bicycle. The bicycle includes a frame, ahinge, a door, a locking mechanism, a bracket, and a receptacle. Theframe include a plurality of tubular members. One of the plurality oftubular members defines an opening leading to an interior of the frame.The hinge is positioned within the interior of the frame proximate anend of the opening. The door is positioned to selectively enclose theopening. The door includes (i) a u-shaped arm extending from a first endof the door into the interior of the frame and pivotally coupled to thehinge and (ii) a retainer extending from an opposing second end of thedoor into the interior of the frame. The locking mechanism includes alatch positioned within the interior of the frame. The latch isconfigured to selectively engage the retainer of the door to lock thedoor in a closed position. The bracket is positioned beneath the openingand coupled to an interior wall of the one of the plurality of tubularmembers. The receptacle is disposed within the interior of the frame andreleasably coupled to the bracket. The receptacle, the door, and theinterior of the frame cooperatively define an interior chamber. Theinterior chamber is longer than the door such that the interior chamberextends into the interior of the frame beyond the opening.

Another embodiment relates to a bicycle. The bicycle includes a frame, adoor, and a tub. The frame includes a plurality of tubular members. Oneof the tubular members defines an opening leading to an interior of theframe. The door is pivotally coupled to the frame and positioned toselectively enclose the opening. The tub is disposed within the interiorof the frame and positioned beneath the opening. The tub, the door, andthe interior cooperatively define an interior chamber. The interiorchamber is longer than the door such that the interior chamber extendsalong the interior of the frame beyond the opening.

Another embodiment relates to an electric bicycle. The electric bicycleincludes a frame supporting a front wheel and a rear wheel, a batterypack coupled to the frame and configured to supply electricity to amotor operatively coupled to the rear wheel, and taillights positionedrearward on the frame, straddling each side of the rear wheel, andconfigured to be powered by the battery pack.

Another embodiment relates to a lock for a bicycle. The lock includes acable and a body member. The cable is stored in and extendable from aninner volume of a tubular member of the bicycle. The cable includes amale locking end. The body member is fixedly coupled with a tubularmember of a frame of the bicycle. The body member includes a first bore,a second bore, an interlocking member, and a guide portion. The firstbore extends through the body member. The first bore is configured toreceive the cable therethrough. The second bore extends at leastpartially through the body member. The second bore is configured toreceive the male locking end of the cable. The interlocking member isconfigured to selectively transition between a locked position and anunlocked position. The interlocking member is configured to engage themale locking end of the cable in the locked position when the malelocking end is inserted into the second bore. The guide portion extendsfrom a rear surface of the body member. The guide portion is configuredto direct the cable from the inner volume of the tubular member of thebicycle to the first bore.

Another embodiment relates to a lock for a bicycle. The lock includes abody member, a removable member, and a cable. The body member is fixedlycoupled with a tubular member of a frame of the bicycle. The body memberincludes a cavity having an opening at a first end of the body member,an aperture that extends through a rear wall of the body member at asecond end of the body member, and a pin that extends at least partiallythrough the cavity from an inner surface at the second end of the bodymember. The removable member is configured to be received within thecavity of the body member. The removable member includes an interlockingmember configured to selectively engage the pin of the body member, abutton configured to disengage the interlocking member from the pin ofthe body member when depressed, and a keylock configured to drive theinterlocking member to engage the pin of the body member when rotated.The cable is stored in and extendable from an inner volume of thetubular member of the bicycle. The cable is fixedly coupled with theremovable member and extends through the aperture of the body member.The removable member is configured to selectively couple with the bodymember within the cavity in a first configuration for transportation andselectively couple with the body member within the cavity in a secondconfiguration for securing the bicycle to an object.

Another embodiment relates to a lock for a bicycle. The lock includes abody member, a removable member, and a cable. The body member is fixedlycoupled with a tubular member of a frame of the bicycle. The body memberincludes a cavity having an opening at a first end of the body memberand an aperture that extends through a rear wall of the body member at asecond end of the body member. The removable member is configured to bereceived within the cavity of the body member. The removable memberincludes a laterally extending track, a slot, a keylock, and a lockingmember configured to be driven to translate along the laterallyextending track by rotation of the keylock. The locking member isselectively translatable between a locked position and an unlockedposition. The cable is stored in and extendable from an inner volume ofthe tubular member of the bicycle. An an end of the cable is fixedlycoupled with the removable member and the cable passes through theaperture of the body member. The cable is configured to be receivedwithin the slot and selectively coupled with the removable member byselectively translating the locking member into the locked position.

Another embodiment relates to a bicycle. The bicycle includes a frameand a mount. The frame includes a downtube and a chain stay. The mountconnects the down tube and the chain stay and configured to receive apedal assist unit at an underside of the mount and a battery pack at anupper side of the mount. The mount extends from a lower end of the downtube and from a bottom side of the chain stay. The battery pack isremoveably coupleable to the mount and comprises a first portionconfigured to be positioned along the upper side of the mount and asecond portion configured to be positioned in line with the down tube.The first portion contiguous with and angularly offset from the secondportion.

This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any waylimiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of thedevices or processes described herein will become apparent in thedetailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to likeelements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a first perspective view of a bicycle, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1B is a second perspective view of the bicycle of FIG. 1A,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1C is a first side view of the bicycle of FIG. 1A, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1D is a second side view of the bicycle of FIG. 1A, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1E is a front view of the bicycle of FIG. 1A, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 1F is a rear view of the bicycle of FIG. 1A, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2A is side view of a mount, a battery, and a pedal-assist unit ofthe bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1F, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of the mount and the battery ofFIG. 2A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional side view of the mount of FIG. 2A with asecond battery, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2D is a first perspective view of the battery of FIG. 2B, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2E is a second perspective view of the battery of FIG. 2B,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2F is a cross-sectional side view of the battery of FIG. 2B,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2G is a cross-sectional view of the battery of FIG. 2B, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2H is a perspective view of the second battery of FIG. 2C,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2I is a cross-sectional side view of the second battery of FIG. 2C,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2J is a side view of the second battery of FIG. 2C, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2K is a first perspective view of a lock included with the mount ofFIG. 2A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2L is a second perspective view of the lock of FIG. 2K, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2M is a cross-sectional side view of the lock of FIG. 2K, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3A is a partial rear perspective view of a pair of dropouts coupledto a frame of the bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1F, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 3B is a side perspective view of a dropout of the pair of dropoutsof FIG. 3A, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3C is a bottom perspective view of the dropout of FIG. 3B,according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3D is a side view of the dropout of FIG. 3B, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view of the dropout of FIG. 3D, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3F is a perspective view of a light assembly of the dropout of FIG.3B, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3G is another bottom perspective view of the dropout of FIG. 3Bdepicting a cavity formed through the dropout, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 3H is partial front perspective view of the bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1Fhaving a front light formed within a frame of the bicycle of FIGS.1A-1F, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3I is a bottom perspective view of a headlight assembly that can becoupled to the bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1F, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 3J is an exploded view of the headlight assembly of FIG. 3I,according to an exemplary embodiment

FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of a lock for the bicycle of FIGS.1A-1F in a storage configuration, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of the lock of FIG. 4A in thestorage configuration, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4C is a front perspective view of the lock of FIG. 4A in a lockedconfiguration, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4D is a side cross-sectional view of the lock of FIG. 4A in thelocked configuration, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4E is a rear perspective view of the lock of FIG. 4A, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4F is a front perspective view of a lock for the bicycle of FIGS.1A-1F, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4G is a side cross-sectional view of the lock of FIG. 4F, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4H is a front perspective view of a lock for the bicycle of FIGS.1A-1F, according to still another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4I is a side cross-sectional view of the lock of FIG. 4H, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4J is a rear perspective view of the lock of FIG. 4H, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4K is a front perspective view of a lock for the bicycle of FIGS.1A-1F, according to yet another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4L is a rear perspective view of the lock of FIG. 4K, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4M is a side view of a bicycle frame of the bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1Fwith a respective lock of the locks of FIGS. 4A-4L integrated into aframe member thereof, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4N is a first cross-sectional view of the bicycle frame of FIG. 4Mwith the respective lock, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4O is a second cross-sectional view of the bicycle frame of FIG. 4Mwith the respective lock, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4P is a perspective view of the bicycle frame of FIG. 4M with therespective lock, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4Q is a schematic diagram of a locking system including the lock ofFIGS. 4A-4E, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4R is a schematic diagram of a locking system including one of thelocks of FIGS. 4F-4J, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4S is a schematic diagram of a locking system with the lock ofFIGS. 4K-4L, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4T is a schematic diagram of a mechanism for securing andautomatically retracting a cable into the bicycle frame of FIG. 4M usinga linear spring, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4U is a schematic diagram of a mechanism for securing andautomatically retracting a cable into the bicycle frame of FIG. 4M usinga torsional spring, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4V is a diagram of a mechanism for securing an end of a cablewithin the bicycle frame of FIG. 4M, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the bicycle of FIGS. 1A-1F having anintegrated storage compartment in a first orientation, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the bicycle of FIG. 5A having theintegrated storage compartment in a second orientation, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5C is a detailed perspective view of the integrated storagecompartment of FIG. 5B in the second orientation, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the integrated storage compartmentof FIGS. 5A-5C, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of the integrated storage compartmentof FIGS. 5A-5C, according to another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of the integrated storage compartmentof FIGS. 5A-5C, according to still another exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 5G-5I are various perspective views of an insert of the integratedstorage compartment of FIGS. 5A-5F, according to an exemplaryembodiment.

FIG. 5J is a perspective view of a bracket of the integrated storagecompartment of FIGS. 5A-5F, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a control system of the bicycleof FIGS. 1A-1F, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplaryembodiments in detail, it should be understood that the presentdisclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in thedescription or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understoodthat the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description onlyand should not be regarded as limiting.

Overall Bicycle

According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, a personaltransport vehicle (e.g., an electric bicycle, etc.), shown as bicycle10, includes (i) a chassis, shown as frame 12; (ii) handlebars, shown ashandlebars 14, rotationally or pivotally coupled to the frame 12 via aconnector, shown as stem 16; (iii) a drivetrain, shown as drivetrain100, coupled to the frame 12 and configured to facilitate driving thebicycle 10; (iv) a power supply assembly, shown as battery system 200,coupled to (e.g., integrated into, secured to, etc.) the frame 12 andconfigured to facilitate powering electrically-operated components ofthe bicycle 10 (e.g., a drive motor, a headlight, one or moretaillights, directional indicators, an electronically-operated glovebox, communications circuitry, wireless transmitters, a controller,etc.); (v) a lighting assembly, shown as lighting system 300, having oneor more lights variously positioned about (e.g., integrated into,secured to, etc.) the frame 12 (e.g., a headlight, one or moretaillights, directional indicators, etc.); (vi) a locking assembly,shown as locking system 400, coupled to (e.g., integrated into, securedto, etc.) the frame 12 and configured to facilitate securing the bicycle10 to a fixture (e.g., a bicycle rack, a pole, etc.); (vii) a storagearea (e.g., a glove box, etc.), shown as storage compartment 900,integrated into the frame 12 and configured to facilitate securelystoring items (e.g., valuables, personal items, tools, locks, etc.)within the frame 12; and (viii) a control system, shown as bicyclecontrol system 1000. In some embodiments, the bicycle 10 does notinclude the battery system 200, the lighting system 300, the lockingsystem 400, the storage compartment 900, and/or the bicycle controlsystem 1000. While shown as a bicycle, in other embodiments, thepersonal transport vehicle is configured as a tricycle, a scooter, orother recreational or commercial personal transport vehicle.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, the frame 12 includes (i) a first tubularmember, shown as head tube 20; (ii) a second tubular member, shown asdown tube 30, extending at a downward sloping angle rearward from alower end of the head tube 20; (iii) a central portion (e.g., main tube,battery and drive assembly body, etc.), shown as central hub 40,extending substantially horizontally rearward from an end of the downtube 30 opposite the head tube 20; (iv) a pair of third tubular members,shown a chain stays 50, extending rearward of the central hub 40 andterminating within a pair of connectors, shown as dropout assemblies 52;(v) a fourth tubular member, shown as front fork 60, extending throughand rotatably received by the head tube 20 and coupled to the handlebars14; (vi) a fifth tubular member, shown as seat tube 70, extendingsubstantially vertically upward from an interface between the centralhub 40 and the chain stays 50; (vii) a pair of sixth tubular members,shown as seat stays 80, extending forward at an upward sloping anglefrom the dropout assemblies 52 to an upper end of the seat tube 70; and,in some embodiments, (viii) a seventh tubular member, shown as top tube90, extending between the seat tube 70 and an upper end of the head tube20 and/or an upper end of the down tube 30. In some embodiments, theframe 12 has other configurations with or without certain tubularmembers, (e.g., does not include the seat stays 80 and/or the top tube90). The frame 12 may be manufactured from various suitable materialsincluding, but not limited to, steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, and thelike, and assembled with a variety of manufacturing techniques (e.g.,welding, joining, casting, molding, etc.) as a single/one-piecestructure or multiple components.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, the drivetrain 100 includes an electromotivedevice, shown as drive motor 110, disposed within a main housing, shownas central housing 48, positioned along and/or within a bottom portionof the central hub 40 (e.g., beneath the battery system 200, etc.).According to an exemplary embodiment, the drive motor 110 is powered bythe battery system 200. In some embodiments, the drive motor 110selectively functions as a generator to recharge the battery system 200(e.g., during downhill events, etc.). As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1D, thedrivetrain 100 includes a driver, shown as crankset 120, having drivearms, shown as crankarms 130, extending therefrom to facilitate manuallyoperating the crankset 120. In some embodiments, the crankset 120 isconfigured as or includes a single sprocket or gear such that thedrivetrain 100 has a fixed gear ratio. In some embodiments, the crankset120 is configured as or includes a plurality of sprockets or gears suchthat the drivetrain 100 has a variable gear ratio. According to anexemplary embodiment, the drive motor 110 is mechanically coupled to thecrankset 120 to facilitate operating the crankset 120 with the drivemotor 110. In some embodiments, the drive motor 110 is used tosupplement the operation of the crankarms 130 (e.g., a pedal-assistsystem, etc.). In some embodiments, the crankset 120 is configured torotate independently of the crankarms 130 when the crankset 120 is beingdriven by the drive motor 110 (e.g., so that the crankarms 130 can bemaintained stationary while the drive motor 110 drives the crankset 120,etc.).

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the drivetrain 100 includes (i) a firsttractive element, shown as front wheel 140, having a first hub, shown asfront hub 142, rotatably coupled to a bottom end of the front fork 60and (ii) a rear tractive element, shown as rear wheel 150, having asecond hub, shown as rear hub 152, rotatably coupled to the dropoutassemblies 52. In some embodiments, the rear hub 152 is configured as orincludes a single sprocket or gear such that the drivetrain 100 has afixed gear ratio. In some embodiments, the rear hub 152 is configured asor includes a plurality of sprockets or gears (e.g., a cassette, etc.)such that the drivetrain 100 has a variable gear ratio. As shown inFIGS. 1A and 1D, the drivetrain 100 includes a driving element (e.g.,belt, chain, pulley, etc.), shown as belt 160, extending between thecrankset 120 and the rear hub 152 to facilitate mechanically driving therear wheel 150 through the crankset 120 with the drive motor 110 and/orthe crankarms 130.

Battery System

According to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A-2M, the batterysystem 200 is shown according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG.2A, the battery system 200 includes a base, shown as mount 202; anenergy storage device, shown as battery pack 204, selectively coupled tothe mount 202; and a drive unit, shown as pedal-assist unit 206, coupledto the mount 202. The pedal-assist unit 206 includes the drive motor 110housed within a housing, shown as central housing 48, of the central hub40. Components of the drivetrain 100 (e.g., the crankset 120, thecrankarms 130, etc.) are coupled to the central housing 48. The centralhousing 48 may also house a gearbox, a controller, power electronics,one or more sensors (e.g., torque sensors), and/or other electroniccomponents configured to facilitate the pedal-assist unit 206 inproviding assistance to a user in pedaling the bicycle 10. For example,the pedal-assist unit 206 may be configured to automatically detect atorque input to the crankarms 130 by a user (e.g., via the feet of arider of the bicycle) and control the drive motor 110 to provide anassistive torque having a magnitude determined as a function of theamount of torque input by the user. The battery system 200 is located atthe central hub 40 of the frame 12.

The mount 202 and the battery pack 204 may provide several advantagesover traditional e-bikes. By way of example, the mount 202 may beconfigured to interface with both the battery pack 204 and thepedal-assist unit 206, thereby providing a unified structure thatfacilitates efficient connection between the battery pack 204 and thepedal-assist unit 206, reduces the space occupied by the battery pack204 and the pedal-assist unit 206, and limits the number of connectiondevices, mounting features, etc. required to secure the battery pack 204and the pedal-assist unit 206 to the bicycle 10. By way of anotherexample, the mount 202 may be positioned between and below the down tube30 and the chain stays 50 such that both the battery pack 204 and thepedal-assist unit 206 are positioned in a low and central position onthe bicycle 10. The low, central position of the battery pack 204 andthe pedal-assist unit 206 provides a low center of mass for the bicycle10, which may improve handling (e.g., balancing, stability, steering,etc.) of the bicycle 10. Additionally, when the bicycle 10 is riddenacross bumps, cracks, potholes, etc., the low-central position of thebattery pack 204 and various features of the battery pack 204 and themount 202 may reduce the risk that the battery pack 204 will bedisrupted, disconnected, etc. as a result of jolts, vibrations, etc. ofthe bicycle 10, as described in greater detail herein.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the mount 202 extends from a bottom end 210 of thedown tube 30 to the chain stays 50, where the mount 202 extends from aforward end 212 of the chain stays 50. That is, the mount 202 extendsalong the length of the central hub 40 of the frame 12. The mount 202includes a leading surface 214 aligned with the underside 217 of thedown tube 30. The leading surface 214 is slightly curved to smoothlytransition from an angle aligned with the underside 217 of the down tube30 to an angle approximately perpendicular to a ground surface (e.g.,the road, a trail, etc.) on which the bicycle 10 can be ridden. Theleading surface 14 may, for example, have a pointed, tapered, orotherwise aerodynamically-optimized profile that matches a curvature ofthe down tube 30. As shown in FIG. 2A, the mount 202 includes a trailingsurface 216 approximately aligned with the seat tube 70 and the forwardend 212 of the chain stays 50. As shown in FIG. 2A, the trailing surface216 is substantially straight (i.e., from the side view in FIG. 2A) andapproximately perpendicular to the ground surface. In other embodiments,the leading surface 214 and/or the trailing surface 216 are otherwiseshaped.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the mount 202 includes a top surface 218 thatextends from the down tube 30 to the forward end 212 of the chain stays50, i.e., along the central hub 40 of the frame 12. The top surface 218is shown as substantially straight and approximately parallel to theground surface. The top surface 218 is positioned slightly below theforward end 212 of the chain stays 50. The top surface 218 is configuredto receive the battery pack 204 such that the battery pack 204 ispositioned along the top surface 218 between (i) the chain stays 50 andthe seat tube 70 and (ii) the down tube 30. The top surface 218 mayinclude a pair of substantially-parallel side walls, such that thebattery pack 204 can be received between the side walls when placedalong the top surface 218. In some embodiments, the central hub 40 ofthe frame 12 defines an internal cavity, shown as center recess 44,formed therein with the top surface 218 forming a floor of the centerrecess 44. In such embodiments, the center recess 44 is configured toreceive the battery via the top side of the central hub 40 of the frame12 (e.g., via a center opening 42 defined by the down tube 30 and thecentral hub 40).

As shown in FIG. 2A, the mount 202 includes a lower surface 220. Thelower surface 220 is concave and is configured to receive thepedal-assist unit 206. That is, the lower surface 220 is shaped to matchan external surface of the pedal-assist unit 206 and to allow thepedal-assist unit 206 to be received by the mount 202 with thepedal-assist unit 206 positioned substantially between the leadingsurface 214 and the trailing surface 216. As shown in FIG. 2A, the mount202 includes side surfaces 222 which join the leading surface 214, thetrailing surface 216, the top surface 218, and the lower surface 220.The side surfaces 222 are substantially perpendicular to the groundsurface on which the bicycle 10 travels and substantially parallel tothe direction of movement of the bicycle 10.

In some embodiments, the mount 202 is manufactured as a separate piecefrom the frame 12 (i.e., separate from the down tube 30, the chain stays50, the seat tube 70), then coupled to the frame 12 (e.g., welded to theframe 12, bolted to the frame 12, bonded, etc.). In other embodiments,for example as shown in FIG. 5A, the mount 202 is manufactured as anintegral part of the frame 12 (e.g., in a common mold or cast with thechain stays 50 and down tube 30, etc.). The frame 12 may, therefore, beformed with the central hub 40 of the frame 12 extending continuouslyfrom the down tube 30 to the chain stays 50 and seat tube 70, with themount 202 positioned along and integral with a bottom side of thecentral hub 40 of the frame 112. The center recess 44 (or channel,passageway, etc.) is formed in the frame 12 such that the battery pack204 can be inserted into the center recess 44 and brought into contactwith the mount 202. In such an embodiment, the top surface 218 of themount 202 may form a floor of the center recess 44. In such embodiments,without the mount 202, the down tube 30 and the chain stays 50 would notbe connected at a lower portion of the bicycle 10 and the bicycle 10 maylack the structural integrity needed for effective use of the bicycle10. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the mount 202 may be included toprovide (i) coupling of the battery pack 204 and the pedal-assist unit206 to the bicycle 10 and (ii) structural support to improve stiffnessof the bicycle 10 and provides sufficient support for the weight of thebattery pack 204 and the pedal-assist unit 206.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the battery pack 204 is positioned (i) along thetop surface 218 of the mount 202 and (ii) between the chain stays 50 andthe down tube 30 (i.e., along the central hub 40). The battery pack 204includes a first portion 230 and a second portion 232. According to anexemplary embodiment, the first portion 230 and the second portion 232are contiguous such that the battery pack 204 is formed as a continuousmember. The first portion 230 is angularly offset from the secondportion 232. The first portion 230 is parallel with the chain stays 50and the top surface 218 of the mount 202, while the second portion 232is parallel with the down tube 30. The angular offset of the firstportion 230 relative to the second portion 232 allows the first portion230 to be positioned along the top surface 218 of the mount 202 with thesecond portion 232 extending from the top surface 218 in a directionaligned with the down tube 30 and towards the head tube 20.

As shown FIG. 2A, the center recess 44 is configured to receive thefirst portion 230 and the second portion 232 of the battery pack 204.The down tube 30, the central hub 40, the mount 202, and the batterypack 204 are thereby designed such that the battery pack 204 may appearto be a continuous member of the down tube 30 when installed as shown inFIG. 2A, as opposed to an alternative design where a battery may bepositioned on an external surface of the down tube 30 and may detractfrom the elegance of the frame design. The central hub 40, the mount202, and the battery pack 204 are thereby designed to maximize aninternal space of the frame and to allow the battery pack 204 to bepositioned in a low position on the bicycle 10.

As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2D-2G, the battery pack 204 is configured as afirst battery, shown as first battery pack 250 (i.e., a first embodimentof the battery pack 204). As shown in FIGS. 2C and 2H-2J, the batterypack 204 is configured as a second battery, shown as second battery pack251 (i.e., a second embodiment of the battery pack 204). According to anexemplary embodiment, the second battery pack 251 is configured toaccommodate more battery cells than the first battery pack 250 such thatthe second battery pack 251 can store more energy than the first batterypack 250 while weighing more and consuming more space than the firstbattery pack 250.

As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2D-2G, the first battery pack 250 includes atop shell 252, a bottom shell 254, and a body 256. The top shell 252 andthe bottom shell 254 substantially encloses the body 256. The bottomshell 254 is configured to interface with the mount 202 and the downtube 30 to allow the first battery pack 250 to be removeably coupled tothe bicycle 10. For example, the bottom shell 254 may substantiallymatch a contour of the top surface 218 of the mount 202 and the centerrecess 44 in the central hub 40. The bottom shell 254 may also include aplate 257 extending therefrom and configured to engage a first lockingmechanism, shown as lock 258, integrated into the mount 202 and theframe 12, as described in greater detail herein. In other embodiments,the plate 257 extends from the body 256 and through (e.g., across, outof, etc.) the bottom shell 254.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the body 256 is configured toreceive multiple battery cells. For example, the body 256 of the firstbattery pack 250 may be configured to receive thirty battery cells. Inthe embodiment shown, the cells are oriented to extend laterally acrossthe bicycle 10. The body 256 may include various conductive pathways(e.g., wiring, etc.) to electrically couple the battery cells to anexternal contact 260 positioned on the body 256. The external contact260 extends from the body 256 beyond (e.g., through, across, out of,etc.) the top shell 252 and the bottom shell 254 and provides forcommunication of electrical current into and out of the battery cells ofthe first battery pack 250, thereby facilitating charging anddischarging of the battery cells. As shown in the examples herein, theexternal contact 260 is positioned on the battery pack 204 such that theexternal contact 260 extends towards a rear of the bicycle 10 and abottom of the battery pack 204 coupled to the bicycle 10. In someembodiments, the body 256 also includes a charge port accessible throughthe top shell 252 and configured to connect to a charging cable thatallows the battery cells to be charged without removing the battery pack204 from the bicycle.

As shown in FIGS. 2C and 2H-2J, the second battery pack 251 includes thebottom shell 254 and the body 256 that are substantially the same as thebottom shell 254 and the body 256 of the first battery pack 250.However, the second battery pack 251 does not include the top shell 252.Rather, the second battery pack 251 includes a top shell 262, whichfacilitates providing a larger internal volume within the second batterypack 251 than the top shell 252 provides within the first battery pack250. Accordingly, more battery cells can be fit within the secondbattery pack 251 than within the first battery pack 250, therebyproviding different amounts of electrical energy storage. For example,the second battery pack 251 may be configured to include forty batterycells. Various numbers of battery cells are possible in variousembodiments.

As shown in FIGS. 2C and 2H-2J, the top shell 262 of the second batterypack 251 has a substantially flat upper surface. The upper surface ofthe top shell 252 of the first battery includes a curvature that tracksthe angular profile between the down tube 30 and the chain stays 50 suchthat the upper surface of the top shell 252 of the first battery pack250 is aligned with both the down tube 30 and the chain stays 50. Byusing the space above the body 256 to provide various sizes ofbatteries, the various sizes of battery pack 204 (e.g., having differentnumbers and/or sizes of battery cells) may be interchangeably mounted onthe bicycle 10 in a uniform fashion, facilitating customization based onmaximum power preferences, weight preferences, maximum operational timepreferences, other performance-based preferences, aesthetic preferences,etc.

As shown in FIGS. 2D-2J, the body 256 has the external contact 260 andthe plate 257 extending from the body 256. The plate 257 extends from anopposite end of the body 256 relative to the external contact 260. Theplate 257 and the external contact 260 extend through (e.g., across, outof, etc.) the bottom shell 254 such that the plate 257 and the externalcontact 260 can engage the mount 202. As shown in FIGS. 2D-2J, aprotrusion 270 extends from the battery pack 204 (i.e., the firstbattery pack 250 or the second battery pack 251) proximate the externalcontact 260. The protrusion 270 may be formed by a combination of (i)the bottom shell 254 and (ii) the top shell 252 of the top sell 262. Theprotrusion 270 is configured to engage a receptacle, lip, recess, orother retaining structure of the mount 202 to help secure the batterypack 204 to the mount 202.

As shown in FIGS. 2K-2M, the lock 258 includes a lock cylinder 280connected to a lock bolt 282, and a baseplate 284 coupled to the lockcylinder 280. The lock bolt 282 can selectively slide relative to thebaseplate 284. A plurality of pads (e.g., rubber pads, etc.), shown aspads 286, are positioned between the baseplate 284 and the lock bolt282. The pads 286 are separated from the lock bolt 282 by a spaceconfigured to receive the plate 257, which extends from the battery pack204. The lock cylinder 280 is configured to receive a key, which can beinserted into the lock cylinder 280 and turned to slide the lock bolt282 relative to the baseplate 284 and the lock cylinder 280. The lock258 may be configured such that the lock bolt 282 is substantiallyimmobile unless the key is inserted into the lock cylinder 280.Alternatively, the lock 258 may be electrically activated (e.g., via thebicycle control system 1000, etc.).

The lock bolt 282 is moveable between a locked position and an unlockedposition by translating in a direction perpendicular to an axis of thelock cylinder 280. In the unlocked position, the lock bolt 282 isretracted towards the lock cylinder 280 and away from the pads 286. Whenthe lock bolt 282 is in the unlocked position, the plate 257 can bemoved into or out of contact with the pads 286. Accordingly, when thelock bolt 282 is in the unlocked position, the battery pack 204 can befreely added to or removed from the bicycle 10.

As shown in FIG. 2L, the plate 257 is prevented from moving away fromthe lock 258 by the lock bolt 282 when the lock bolt 282 is in thelocked position and the plate 257 is in contact with the pads 286. Theplate 257 may compress the pads 286 when engaged by the lock bolt 282(with the lock bolt 282 in the locked position), such that a resilient(springing) quality of the pads 286 forces the plate 257 squeezes theplate 257 between the pads 286 and the lock bolt 282. The lock 258 canthereby prevent the battery pack 204 from being removed from the bicycle10, while also providing a secure connection that substantially preventsshaking, vibration, etc. of the battery pack 204 relative to the bicycle10. Deviation of the battery pack 204 is thereby prevented, resistingboth intentional human manipulation and bumps, jolts, etc. experiencedby the bicycle 10 as the bicycle 10 is ridden over uneven surfaces.

As shown in FIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2M, the lock 258 is integrated into themount 202 such that the lock cylinder 280, the lock bolt 282, thebaseplate 284, and the pads 286 are located on or in the mount 202 andthe lock 258 is positioned proximate the down tube 30. A keyhole of thelock cylinder 280 is accessible from a lateral side of the mount 202 andis substantially flush with a side surface 222 of the mount 202. Thebaseplate 284 and the pads 286 are positioned at the top surface 218 ofthe mount 202 with the lock bolt 282 positioned slightly above the pads286. The lock 258 is thereby positioned to engage the battery pack 204when the battery pack 204 is positioned within the center recess 44 ofthe central hub 40 as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C. As shown in FIG. 2M, thebottom shell 254 and the body 256 may be contoured to accommodate aspace occupied by the lock 258. When the battery pack 204 is secured tothe bicycle 10, the lock 258 is internal to the bicycle 10, with onlythe keyhole-end of the lock cylinder 280 exposed and accessible to auser.

According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 2K-2M, the lock 258is a mechanical device without electronic components. In otherembodiments, the lock 258 may be electrically power (e.g., via powerfrom the battery pack 204) and may be controlled via electroniccommunications, for example via a button or other interface located onthe bicycle 10, a key fob, and/or via a mobile device communicable withthe lock 258 via wireless communication (e.g., Bluetooth, near-fieldcommunication, radio-frequency identification, etc.). Various suchmodifications are within the scope of the present disclosure.

The battery pack 204, the mount 202, and the pedal-assist unit 206 arethereby securely positioned in a low, central position on the bicycle10, improving handling and stability of the bicycle 10 by lowering thecenter of mass of the bicycle 10. The battery pack 204 can be easilyremoved from the bicycle 10 by an authorized user (i.e., a person with akey to the lock 258), while the lock 258 prevents theft of the batterypack 204. The battery pack 204 may be removed to facilitate charging ofthe battery pack 204 via the external contact 260, to allow a differentbattery pack 204 to be used (e.g., to switch from the first battery pack250 to the second battery pack 251), etc.

Lighting System

As shown in FIGS. 3A-3J, the lighting system 300 includes various lightsources, shown as one or more taillights 302, a headlight 304, and asignature light 306, that are each formed within or otherwise mounted tothe frame 12 of the bicycle 10. Each of the taillights 302, theheadlight 304, and the signature light 306 include lighting elements(e.g., light emitting diodes (LED), organic light emitting diodes(OLED), polymeric light emitting diodes (PLED), incandescent lightbulbs,etc.) that can be selectively activated and controlled to illuminateareas around the bicycle 10 and/or provide indications to surroundingpeople. Electrical power from the battery pack 204 or from secondary,alternative sources can be used to activate lighting elements within thelighting system 300. When activated, the lighting elements canilluminate the area surrounding the bicycle 10 and provide lighting thatcan be used by an operator of the bicycle 10 to navigate the bicycle 10in reduced-light conditions (e.g., dusk, night-time, fog, etc.).Additionally, the lighting elements promote visibility of the bicycle10, and can alert other motorists or pedestrians that the bicycle 10 ispresent on the roadway or pathway and/or of the operator's intentions(e.g., turn, slow down, etc.).

With specific reference to FIGS. 3A-3G, the taillights 302 of thelighting system 300 are shown in further detail. The taillights 302 arepositioned near the rear end of the bicycle 10, and can be configured toemit light in multiple directions, and particularly behind the bicycle10. For example, each of the taillights 302 can project light laterallyand rearwardly away from the frame 12 simultaneously, which improves theoverall visibility of the bicycle 10.

To provide illumination as discussed above, the taillights 302 areintegrally coupled to dropouts of the dropout assemblies 52, show asright dropout 54 and left dropout 56. The right dropout 54 and the leftdropout 56 can be mirror images of one another, and identical taillights302 can be positioned within each of the right dropout 54 and the leftdropout 56. As shown in FIG. 3A, the right dropout 54 and the leftdropout 56 straddle the rear wheel 150 and have a generally continuousbody 308 that is coupled (e.g., welded or molded) to the frame 12 (i.e.,the chain stays 50 and the seat stays 80). A front end 310 of the body308 is mounted to a rearward portion of the chain stays 50 of the frame12, while the rear end 312 of the body 308 supports the taillight 302.In other embodiments, taillights (and/or “brake” lights) may be mountedto or integrated into other structural elements of the bicycle (e.g.,seat, seat post, the seat stays 80, the seat tube 70, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 3A, the rear end 312 of the body 308 includes a tieredstructure having an outer face 314 and a mounting face 316 inwardlyoffset from the outer face 314. The offset between the mounting face 316and the outer face 314 defines a cavity 318 that can receive and supportone of the taillights 302. The mounting face 316 can be defined by arectangular shape, and can be at least partially surrounded by walls 320extending approximately orthogonally (e.g., within 10 degrees) away fromthe mounting face 316 to the outer face 314 to define arectangular-shaped cavity 318. In some examples, the mounting face 316is offset to one side of the outer face 314 so that the walls 320 extendaround and surround three sides of the mounting face 316, but leave oneside of the mounting face open (e.g., the rear end 312 thereof). Asshown in FIGS. 3A-3G, the mounting face 316 is offset toward an outside322 of the body 308, making the cavity 318 is accessible from both therear end 312 and the outside 322 of the right dropout 54 and the leftdropout 56. The mounting face 316 and the outer face 314 can each beapproximately planar surfaces that are spaced apart from one another andextend obliquely relative to one another. For example, the outer face314 can be angularly offset from the mounting face 316 by an angle ofbetween about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

The taillight 302 is embedded into and secured within the cavity 318. Asshown in FIGS. 3E and 3F, the taillight 302 includes a frame 324 thatsupports a circuit board 326. The circuit board 326 supports one or morelighting elements, shown as LEDs 328, which are selectively illuminatedusing electrical power provided by the battery pack 204 or analternative power source. A lens 330 extends around the frame 324 toprotect the circuit board and LEDs 328 and distribute light illuminatedfrom the LEDs 328 outward in a more uniform manner. In some embodiments,the lens 330 can be formed of a red polymeric material, likepolycarbonate, and acts as a diffuser to the light sources. The frame324 and the lens 330 can be adhesively coupled to one another, forexample, to form an enclosed taillight 302 module.

The frame 324 and the lens 330 of the taillight 302 together define theouter perimeter of the taillight 302, and are sized to fit securelywithin the cavity 318. In some examples, the frame 324 is formed as achannel having a continuous shape defined by a bottom wall 332, a backwall 334 extending away from (e.g., perpendicular to, etc.) the bottomwall 332, and a top wall 336 extending away from (e.g., perpendicularto, etc.) the back wall 334. The channel is complimentary to the walls320 and the mounting face 316, and can be received entirely within thecavity 318. A boss 338 can extend from the bottom wall 332, and can beused to help couple the frame 324 and taillight 302, more generally, tothe body 308 of the right dropout 54 and the left dropout 56. As shownin FIG. 3C, a threaded hole 340 can be formed through the boss 338 and athrough hole 342 formed through a bottom of the body 308 can be alignedwith the threaded hole 340 so that a fastener can be passed through thethrough hole 342 and threaded into the threaded hole 340 to secure thetaillight 302 within the cavity 318. When assembled into place, the lens330 can extend parallel to and approximately coplanar with the rear end312 of the body 308. In some embodiments, a first portion 344 of thelens 330 extends parallel to the outside 322 of the body 308, a secondportion 346 of the lens 330 extends parallel to the outer face 314, anda third portion 348 of the lens 330 extends parallel to an inside 348 ofthe body 308. When operating, light emitted by the LEDs 328 can bevisible through each of the first portion 344, the second portion 346,and the third portion 348, which correspond to three differentdirections (i.e., right, left, back).

According to an exemplary embodiment, electrical power is supplied fromthe battery pack 204 through the frame 12 and into taillight 302. Asshown in FIGS. 3E and 3G, a wiring passage 350 is formed through thebody 308 of the right dropout 54 and the left dropout 56, extending fromthe front end 310 through to the rear end 312 thereof. The wiringpassage 350 is defined by a through hole 352 that extends from themounting face 316 toward the front end 310 of the body 308. The wiringpassage 350 continues forward, through the body 308, and into anotherthrough hole 354 formed in and through the front end 310 of the body308. The wiring passage 350 can receive and protect one or moreelectrical wires extending away from the circuit board 326 and the LEDs328 through the body 308 and into the frame 12, where the electricalwires can then be coupled to the battery pack 204 using, for example, awiring harness, bus, or other terminal-style connection that iselectrically coupled to the battery system 200.

Operation of the taillights 302 can be controlled using a centralcontroller (e.g., the bicycle controller 1010 shown in FIG. 6 ) or amicroprocessor formed on the circuit board 326. The bicycle controller1010 can be used to adjust the intensity, number of lighting elementsoperating, frequency, pattern, color, or other operational parameters ofLEDs 328 within the taillight 302 that may be varied. In someembodiments, the bicycle controller 1010 can adjust the intensity of thelight emitted from the LEDs 328 based upon feedback received from othercomponents within the bicycle 10. For example, the bicycle controller1010 can issue a command to increase the intensity of light emitted fromthe LEDs 328 when the bicycle controller 1010 receives an indication(e.g., from a sensor) that the front or rear brakes have been actuatedor otherwise engaged. Additionally, an ambient light sensor can becoupled to the bicycle 10 to monitor ambient light surrounding thebicycle 10 and send an indication to activate the taillights 302whenever the amount of ambient light measured by the sensor falls belowa threshold value. In some embodiments, the bicycle controller 1010 isin communication with turn signals positioned on the handlebars 14 ofthe bicycle 10. Upon receiving an input indicating that one of the turnsignals has been actuated, the bicycle controller 1010 issues a commandto modulate (e.g., pulsate, flash, etc.) the LEDs 328 within thetaillight 302 corresponding to the side of the bicycle 10 where the turnsignal was selected to produce a blinking effect. For example, actuatingthe right turn signal could command the taillight 302 positioned withinthe right dropout 54 to strobe while simultaneously keeping thetaillight 302 in the left dropout 56 on the opposite side of the rearwheel 150 at a constant level of illumination or off (if not on). Insome embodiments, the taillights 302 each remain illuminated wheneverthe bicycle 10 is being operated, but may increase in brightness duringbraking processes.

The bicycle controller 1010 can communicate with the taillights 302through wired or wireless communication methods. In some embodiments,control wires are passed through the wiring passage 350 in the body 308to the taillight 302 to communicate commands from the bicycle controller1010 to the taillight 302. Signals produced by the bicycle controller1010 can be passed along the control wires to the circuit board 326 andto the LEDs 328 in order to adjust operational parameters of thetaillight 302. Alternatively, the circuit board 326 can include acommunications unit (e.g., an antenna, a wireless receiver, etc.) thatcan receive wireless signals from the bicycle controller 1010, one ormore sensors, or other suitable inputs that can then be used to operatethe LEDs 328.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3H-3J, the bicycle 10 includes afront light, shown as headlight 304, and/or a conspicuity or “daytime”running lamps, shown as signature light 306, to further improve thevisibility of the bicycle 10 and/or the operator's visibility ahead ofthe bicycle 10. As shown in FIGS. 3H-3J, each of the headlight 304 andthe signature light 306 can be integrally formed within the frame 12near a front end of the bicycle 10, so as to direct light forward, inthe direction of travel of the bicycle 10. Each of the headlight 304 andthe signature light 306 can be supplied with electrical power from thebattery pack 204, using wires that extend through a portion of the frame12.

As shown in FIG. 3H, the signature light 306 is positioned within andintegrally coupled with the head tube 20 of the frame 12. The signaturelight 306 is configured to fit across and around an opening 22 formed inthe head tube 20. The opening 22 in the head tube 20 defines a cavity 24that extends into the head tube 20 toward the down tube 30, and has adepth sufficient to receive the modular lighting assembly of thesignature light 306 and associated wiring used to couple the signaturelight 306 to the battery pack 204. Like the taillights 302, thesignature light 306 can include one or more lighting elements (e.g.,LEDs) that are configured to selectively illuminate based uponoperational parameters of the bicycle 10 or based upon inputs receivedfrom the bicycle controller 1010. In some embodiments, the signaturelight 306 is configured to provide a low-level illumination that is usedto help improve the visibility of the bicycle 10, but which is notintended for use to drive in low or reduced-light conditions. Thesignature light 306 can be provided with electrical power and can remainoperational (e.g., illuminated) whenever the bicycle 10 is in use.Alternatively, the signature light 306 can be selectively activated uponthe detection of a low or reduced-light condition, as measured by anambient light sensor and as instructed by the bicycle controller 1010,or in response to operator activation. As shown in FIG. 3H, thesignature light 306 can be covered by a lens 356 provided with asource-identifying shape or pattern. In some embodiments, the lens 356is configured to extend approximately continuously with an outer surfaceof the head tube 20. Alternatively, the lens 356 can protrude outwardbeyond an outer surface of the head tube 20, forming a boss-likestructure on the front of the frame 12. In some embodiments, thesignature light 306 provides a light-up symbol or logo (e.g., amanufacturer's logo, etc.). In some embodiments, the headlight 304replaces the signature light 306 and is received within the cavity 24.

The headlight 304 can be used to provide additional illumination infront of the bicycle 10 so that the bicycle 10 can be operated in low orreduced-light conditions. As shown in FIGS. 3I and 3J, the headlight 304can be formed integrally within the stem 16 of the frame 12. The stem 16generally includes a body 358 having a front section 360 and a backsection 362 and having an LED light 364 formed integrally within thebody 358. In some examples, the LED light 364 is angled downwardly andoutwardly away from the front section 360 of the body 358 to illuminatearea in front of the bicycle 10. The LED light 364 in the headlight 304,like the taillights 302 and the signature light 306, can communicatewith the bicycle controller 1010 to selectively activate based upondetected operational parameters (e.g., ambient light sensor detecting alow light condition), manual input (e.g., a button or switch on thehandlebars 14 or frame 12 of the bicycle 10), a timer, or other suitablecontrol parameters. In some embodiments, the LED light 364 has multipleillumination settings that can correspond to a high beam and a low beamsetting, and can be toggled manually or automatically by buttons,switches, and/or sensors in communication with the bicycle controller1010.

The body 358 defines and surrounds a channel 366. The channel 366 isconfigured to receive the handlebars 14 of the bicycle 10, which extendtransversely through the body 358 of the stem 16. The stem 16 isconfigured to rotate in unison with the handlebars 14, and can bereceived around and mounted to the front fork 60 using another passage368, which extends approximately perpendicular relative to the channel366. Because the stem 16 rotates with the handlebars 14, the LED light364 similarly rotates with the handlebars 14 so that the LED light 364is always directed in the direction of travel of the bicycle 10.

In some embodiments, the body 358 is an assembly of multiple sectionscoupled together. For example, the body 358 can be formed of a rearsection 370, an adapter section 372, and a front section 374. The rearsection 370 can include the passage 368, and can be secured to the frontfork 60 of the frame 12. The adapter section 372 can be selectivelyreceived within the rear section 370 and the front section 374, and canbe used to adjust a length of the body 358. For example, several adaptersections 372 of different lengths can be provided with the same bicycle10, and are readily interchangeable to adjust the overall length of thebody 358. The front section of the body includes the LED light 364, anddefines a wiring passage 376 that receives and directs an electricalwire 378 coupled to the LED light 364 toward the adapter section 372 tothe rear section 370 and into the frame 12 of the bicycle 10, toward thebattery pack 204. The front section 374 of the body 358 also includesand defines the channel 366. The front section 374 can be formed of twosections 380, 382 clamped together using piece 384 formed integrallywith the section 380. The section 380 may include a lens or transparentpanel disposed around the LED light 364 and through which light isemitted from the LED light 364.

Locking System

Referring generally to FIGS. 4A-4V, the locking system 400 for thebicycle 10, according to various exemplary embodiments. The lockingsystem 400 includes a locking member that can be fixedly coupled withthe frame 12 of the bicycle 10. The locking system 400 may include acable, a chain, a flexible member, an elongated member, etc., forsecuring the bicycle 10 to a stationary object (e.g., a nearby objectsuch as a bike rack). The cable can be stored within the frame 12 of thebicycle 10 and may be drawn out of the frame 12 to selectively lock thebicycle 10 with the stationary object. The locking system 400 may beconfigured to automatically retract the cable into the frame 12 afterthe bicycle 10 is unlocked from the stationary object.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4E, a first lock (e.g., a lock, a lockingapparatus, a locking device, a securing device, etc.), shown as lock500, of the locking system 400 includes a body member (e.g., bodyportion, a main portion, a receiving portion, a frame portion, ahousing, etc.), shown as body 502, and a removable member (e.g.,removable portion, a lock portion, a cable extension portion, aselectively extendable portion, etc.), shown as insert 504. The insert504 is configured to be removably received within and selectivelyfixedly couple with the body 502. Specifically, the insert 504 isconfigured to be received within a receptacle (e.g., an opening, anaperture, a hole, a recess, an inner volume, a bore, a chamber, etc.) ofthe body 502, shown as cavity 508. The insert 504 can have across-sectional shape or an outer periphery that corresponds to across-sectional shape of the cavity 508 to facilitate the insertion andremoval of the insert 504 in the body 502.

The body 502 includes a sidewall 514 and a flange 516. The flange 516 ispositioned at a first or proximate end 528 of the body 502 andcircumferentially surrounds the cavity 508 into which the insert 504 isinserted. The flange 516 facilitates fixedly and securely coupling thebody 502 with a bicycle frame member, a tubular member, etc. of theframe 12. The flange 516 and the sidewall 514 are integrally formed orotherwise fixedly coupled to define the body 502.

The body 502 also includes a housing member (e.g., a protrusion, a boss,an extrusion, a housing, etc.), shown as protrusion 506. The protrusion506 extends from a second or distal end 530 of the body 502 and includesan inner or internal volume that is configured to receive and store aspring 532. In some embodiments, the spring 532 is a linear compressionspring that is configured to exert a biasing force on the insert 504 topop or translate the insert 504 out of the cavity 508.

The body 502 includes an engagement member (e.g., a post, a pin, a malelocking member, an interface, etc.), shown as pin 520, that extendslongitudinally through cavity 508. In some embodiments, the pin 520extends only partially through cavity 508. The pin 520 can extend froman inner surface, a rear surface, an inner most face, etc., of the body502 at the distal end 530 of the body 502, shown as inner surface 518.The pin 520 can be fixedly coupled with the body 502 and includes an endportion configured selectively fixedly couple with a correspondingfemale portion of the insert 504 such that the pin 520 is configured toselectively fixedly couple with the insert 504.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4B, the insert 504 includes athrough-hole (e.g., an aperture, a bore, a blind-hole, an opening, acavity, a channel, a groove, etc.), shown as bore 526. The bore 526extends longitudinally through the insert 504 and is configured toreceive the pin 520 to facilitate selectively fixedly coupling theinsert 504 with body 502 (i.e., in a locked configuration). The insert504 includes an interlocking member (e.g., a locking member, aninterfacing member, a female member, etc.), shown as retainer 534. Theretainer 534 is configured to interface with, fixedly couple with,engage, etc., an end portion 522 of the pin 520 to fixedly couple thepin 520 and the body 502 with the insert 504 to secure the insert 504therein. The retainer 534 can be biased or driven into engagement withthe end portion 522 of the pin 520 by a spring. In some embodiments, theretainer 534 is configured to engage an annular groove (e.g., a recess,a notch, a depression, etc.) of the end portion 522 of the pin 520 toselectively fixedly couple the insert 504 with the body 502.

The insert 504 includes an interface (e.g., a button, a translatablemember, a slidable member, etc.), shown as button 524. When the insert504 is stored in the body 502 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B), thebutton 524 faces outwards and can be pressed by a user to selectivelyde-couple or release the insert 504 from the body 502. The button 524 isconfigured to be received within a corresponding recess (e.g., innervolume, bore, etc.), shown as cavity 536. The button 524 can be slidablycoupled with the insert 504 and translate within the cavity 536. Whenthe button 524 is pressed or depressed by the user, the body 502 isselectably de-coupled from the insert 504 so that the insert 504 can bedrawn out of the cavity 508 of the body 502. A rear end of the button524 includes an angled surface 538 that is configured to engage acorrespondingly angled surface 540 of the retainer 534. Pressing ortranslating the button 524 into the cavity 536 drives the retainer 534to translate in a direction perpendicular to the translation of thebutton 524, thereby driving the retainer 534 out of engagement with theend portion 522 of the pin 520. Once the retainer 534 is translated ortransitioned out of engagement with the pin 520, the spring 532 drivesthe insert 504 to at least partially translate or pop out of the cavity508 of the body 502.

After being de-coupled from the body 502, the insert 504 can be drawnout of the cavity 508 by the user. The insert 504 is fixedly coupledwith a flexible member (e.g., a cable, a chain, a cord, etc.), shown asflexible member 542. In some embodiments, the flexible member 542 isfixedly coupled at a rear end 512 of the insert 504. In someembodiments, the flexible member 542 is received within acorrespondingly shaped aperture, opening, hole, etc., shown as aperture544. The flexible member 542 can be fixedly coupled with the insert 504within the aperture 544. The orientation of the insert 504 can bereversed and then re-inserted into the cavity 508 in an oppositedirection than the direction the insert 504 is drawn out of the cavity508. For example, the insert 504 can be re-inserted into the cavity 508with the front end 510 entering the cavity 508 first.

The insert 504 includes a locking aperture (e.g., a female lockingportion, an opening, a cavity, a bore, etc.), shown as the lockingaperture 546. In some embodiments, the locking aperture 546 extends adistance into the insert 504 through the front end 510. In someembodiments, the locking aperture 546 is an end of the bore 526. Whenthe insert 504 is re-inserted into the cavity 508 with the front end 510entering the cavity 508 first, the locking aperture 546 is configured toreceive the pin 520 and fixedly couple with the end portion of the pin520. In some embodiments, the pin 520 includes a tapered end such thatthe retainer 534 is driven to translate as the insert 504 is insertedinto the cavity 508. Once the insert 504 is inserted into the cavity 508a certain distance, the retainer 534 translates into engagement with theannular groove at the end portion 522 of the pin 520.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 4C and 4D, after the insert 504 isre-inserted into the cavity 508, the rear end 512 of the insert 504 isexposed and points outwards from the body 502. The insert 504 includes acylinder (e.g., a lock cylinder, a keylock, etc.), shown as keylock 548.The keylock 548 is received within and is pivotally and slidably coupledwith a corresponding bore 550. A longitudinal axis 552 extends centrallythrough the keylock 548. The keylock 548 includes a keyhole 554configured to receive a key. After the key is inserted into the keyhole554, the keylock 548 can be pivoted about the longitudinal axis 552.Rotation of the keylock 548 about the longitudinal axis 552 drives theretainer 534 out of engagement with the end portion 522 of the pin 520.In this way, a user can selectively un-lock and de-couple the insert 504from the body 502 after the insert 504 is re-inserted into the cavity508 of the body 502 in the configuration shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D. Insome embodiments, the keyhole 554 is only accessible after the insert504 has been drawn or pulled out of the cavity 508 of the body 502.

The insert 504 can include a recessed side or an angled portion that,together with the sidewall 514 defines an opening, a cavity, an innervolume, etc., shown as opening 556, through which the flexible member542 extends. In some embodiments, the flexible member 542 extendsthrough the opening 556 defined between the insert 504 and the sidewall514 and fixedly couples at the rear end 512 of the insert 504.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4E, the body 502 defines an opening(e.g., an aperture, a hole, a window, a through-hole, etc.), shown asaperture 558. The flexible member 542 may pass through the aperture 558and fixedly couple with the rear end 512 of the insert 504 or aninternal retainer of the frame 12. The flexible member 542 can be storedwithin and extend out of an inner volume of the frame 12 of the bicycle10 with which the body 502 is fixedly coupled. The operation and use ofthe lock 500 is described in greater detail herein with reference toFIG. 4Q.

As shown in FIGS. 4F and 4G, a second lock (e.g., a lock, a lockingapparatus, a locking device, a securing device, etc.), shown as lock600, of the locking system 400 includes a body member (e.g., a receivingmember, a housing, a frame member, etc.), shown as body 602, and aremovable member (e.g., removable portion, a lock portion, a cableextension portion, a selectively extendable portion, etc.), shown asinsert 604. The insert 604 is configured to be received within an innervolume (e.g., a cavity, a recess, an opening, receptacle, etc.), shownas cavity 608, of the body 602. In some embodiments, the insert 604 isstored within the cavity 608 of the body 602 during transportation andremoved from the cavity 608 when the bicycle 10 is locked. The body 602can be the same as or similar to the body 502. For example, the body 602can include any similar features, geometry, etc., as body 502. In someembodiments, the body 602 includes a lip (e.g., a stepped portion, ashoulder, etc.), shown as flange 616, that is configured to engage acorresponding portion of the frame 12 (e.g., down tube 30) of thebicycle 10.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4G, the insert 604 includes a cylinder(e.g., a locking cylinder, a lock, a keylock, etc.), shown as keylock648. In some embodiments, the keylock 648 is the same as or similar tothe keylock 548. The keylock 648 is received within and is pivotally andslidably coupled within a corresponding bore 650. The keylock 648includes an interface (e.g., an end portion, an end protrusion, anengagement portion, etc.), shown as protrusion 660. The keylock 648defines a longitudinal axis 652 that extends through a center point ofthe keylock 648. In some embodiments, the keylock 648 includes a keyhole654 that is configured to receive and engage a key. After the insert 604is removed from the cavity 608 of the body 602, the keyhole 654 can beaccessed by the user. The user may insert a key into the keyhole 654 androtate the key to pivot or rotate the keylock 648 within the bore 650.In some embodiments, the keyhole 654 is only accessible after the insert604 has been drawn or pulled out of the cavity 608 of the body 602.

The insert 604 includes an aperture, a bore, a connecting portion, etc.,shown as bore 656. The bore 656 is configured to receive and fixedlycouple with the flexible member 542. In some embodiments, the bore 656is configured to align with a corresponding aperture 658 that extendsthrough a rear wall of the body 602. The aperture 658 can slidablycouple with the flexible member 542 such that the flexible member 542can pass through the aperture 658 as the insert 604 is drawn or pulledout of the body 602.

The insert 604 defines a passage (e.g., a lateral passageway, a channel,a groove, a slot, a recess, etc.), shown as track 668. The track 668extends in a lateral direction that is substantially perpendicular withthe longitudinal axis 652. The insert 604 includes a locking member(e.g., a slidable member, a translatable member, etc.), shown asretainer 664. The retainer 664 is configured to be received within andslide or translate within the track 668. The retainer 664 defines aninterface (e.g., a slot, a channel, a groove, a recess, etc.), shown asrecess 666. The recess 666 is configured to engage and receive theprotrusion 660. Rotation of the keylock 648 drives the retainer 664 totranslate along the track 668.

The retainer 664 is translatable between a locked configuration/positionshown in FIG. 4G, and an unlocked configuration/position. The insert 604includes a longitudinally extending channel, passageway, cavity, etc.,shown as longitudinal cavity 646. In some embodiments, the longitudinalcavity 646 extends longitudinally through the track 668. The retainer664 can translate along the track 668 between the locked configurationshown in FIG. 4G and the unlocked configuration/position. When theretainer 664 is transitioned into the locked configuration shown in FIG.4G, a locking cavity, a locking chamber, etc., shown as inner lockingvolume 662, is defined between the retainer 664 and inner surfaces ofthe insert 604. In some embodiments, the inner locking volume 662 is aninner most portion of the longitudinal cavity 646. In some embodiments,the longitudinal cavity 646 is a groove or a track that extends adistance longitudinally into the insert 604 and extends alongsubstantially an entire lateral width of the insert 604.

When the retainer 664 is transitioned into the unlockedconfiguration/position, inner locking volume 662 is accessible throughthe longitudinal cavity 646. The insert 604 can be drawn or pulledcompletely out of the body 602, wrapped around a stationary object(e.g., a bike rack, a post, a lamppost, a wall, etc.), and secured tothe flexible member 542. For example, the retainer 664 may betransitioned into the unlocked configuration/position, the flexiblemember 542 may inserted into the inner locking volume 662 such that theflexible member 542 extends laterally through the inner locking volume662, and the retainer 664 may then be transitioned into the lockedconfiguration/position (shown in FIG. 4G) to secure the flexible member542 with the body 602. In this way, the longitudinal cavity 646 can beopened or closed to receive the flexible member 542 therewithin to lockthe body 602 onto the flexible member 542.

As shown in FIGS. 4H-4J, a third lock (e.g., a lock, a lockingapparatus, a locking device, a securing device, etc.), shown as lock700, of the locking system 400 includes a body member (e.g., a receivingmember, a housing member, a frame member, etc., shown as body 702, and aremovable member (e.g., a pivotal member, a lock member, etc.), shown asinsert 704. The insert 704 is received within a cavity (e.g., an innervolume, a recess, etc.) of the body 702, shown as cavity 708. In someembodiments, the body 702 and the insert 704 have a generallycylindrical shape. The cavity 708 can have a circular cross-sectionalarea that is configured to receive the insert 704. In some embodiments,a cylindrical inner surface of the body 702 is configured to slidablyengage or slidably couple with an outer cylindrical surface of theinsert 704. The lock 700 can include any of the features or geometry ofthe lock 600. For example, the lock 700 can include a translatablemember that is configured to be driven to translate along a track byturning a key. The translatable member can be configured to allow accessto an inner locking chamber through which the flexible member 542 can beinserted. The translatable member can then be transitioned into a lockedconfiguration by turning the key to secure and lock the flexible member542 within the inner locking chamber.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 4H and 4I, the body 702 is a generallyhollow and cylindrical member having a sidewall 714 and a flange 716that extends circumferentially along the sidewall 714 at an open end ofthe body 702. The insert 704 is configured to be removed through theopen end of the body 702. The open end of the body 702 is a front orproximate end 728 of the body 702. The body 702 includes a second ordistal end 730.

The insert 704 includes a front or proximate end 710 and a second ordistal end 712. In some embodiments, the distal end 712 of the insert704 is at the distal end 730 of the body 702 when the insert 704 isinserted into the body 702. Likewise, the proximate end 710 of theinsert 704 can be positioned at the proximate end 728 of the body 702when the insert 704 is inserted into the body 702.

The body 702 includes a housing (e.g., a boss, a protrusion, a tab, ahousing protrusion, etc.), shown as protrusion 706. The protrusion 706extends at the distal end 730 of the body 702 from a rear or outer faceof the body 702. In some embodiments, the protrusion 706 includes aninner volume 707 that extends into the cavity 708 of the body 702. Aspring (e.g., the spring 532) can be positioned within the inner volume707 and can engage the distal end 712 of the insert 704. The spring canbe configured to bias or exert a force upon a back surface of the insert704 at the distal end 712.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4J, the body 702 includes a channel(e.g., an opening, an angular opening, a slot, etc.), shown as opening780. The opening 780 extends through a rear wall of the body 702 at thedistal end 730 of the body 702. The opening 780 includes a firstaperture 782, a second aperture 784, and a connecting opening 788. Insome embodiments, the first aperture 782 and the second aperture 784have circular shapes. In some embodiments, the first aperture 782 islarger (e.g., larger in area, larger in diameter, larger in radius,etc.) than the second aperture 784. The connecting opening 788 canextend along an angular path between the first aperture 782 and thesecond aperture 784. The first aperture 782 and the second aperture 784can be angularly offset about the longitudinal axis 751. In someembodiments, the first aperture 782 and the second aperture 784 areangularly offset.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 4H-4J, the insert 704 includes aprotrusion (e.g., an extrusion, a pin, a post, an engaging member, aninterfacing member, an interlocking member, etc.), shown as engagementprotrusion 790. The engagement protrusion 790 extends from the distalend 712 of the insert 704. The engagement protrusion 790 can include anannular groove (e.g., a stepped portion, a notched portion, etc.), shownas annular groove 792. In some embodiments, the engagement protrusion790 is configured to extend through the opening 780. The engagementprotrusion 790 can have an outer diameter that is greater than acorresponding diameter of the second aperture 784 and the connectingopening 788 but less than the diameter of the first aperture 782. Inthis way, the body 702 can be rotated or pivoted between an engagedposition (shown in FIGS. 4I and 4J) where the engagement protrusion 790and the annular groove 792 engage corresponding portions of the backsidewall at the second aperture 784, and a disengaged position where theengagement protrusion 790 aligns with the first aperture 782 and can beremoved from the first aperture 782. The engagement protrusion 790includes a channel, a passageway, an aperture, an inner volume, a bore,etc., shown as inner volume 794. In some embodiments, the flexiblemember 542 extends through the inner volume 794 and fixedly couples withthe body 702 at a position within the inner volume 794.

Referring still to FIGS. 4H-4J, the insert 704 includes a handle (e.g.,a protrusion, a tab, a flange, a grasping member, etc.), shown as tab760. The tab 760 extends from an outer surface at the proximate end 710of the insert 704. The user can grasp the tab 760 (e.g., with theirfingers) and exert a torque on the insert 704 via the tab 760. As theuser exerts the torque on the insert 704 via the tab 760, the insert 704rotates about the longitudinal axis 751 relative to the body 702. Theuser can rotate the insert 704 until the engagement protrusion 790 ispositioned within the first aperture 782. Once the engagement protrusion790 is rotated to the first aperture 782, the insert 704 can be drawn orpulled out of the body 702. In some embodiments, the spring positionedwithin the protrusion 706 facilitates driving the insert 704 out of thebody 702 once the engagement protrusion 790 is rotated to the firstaperture 782.

Referring still to FIGS. 4H-4J, the insert 704 includes a cylinder(e.g., a locking cylinder, a lock, a keylock, etc.), shown as keylock748. In some embodiments, the keylock 748 is the same as or similar tothe keylock 648 or the keylock 548. The keylock 748 is configured to bereceived within a bore (e.g., an opening, an aperture, etc.), of theinsert 704, shown as bore 750. The keylock 748 can be pivotally orrotatably coupled with the insert 704 within the bore 750 such that thekeylock 748 can rotate or pivot relative to the insert 704. The keylock748 includes a keyhole 754 configured to receive a key. In someembodiments, the user can access the keyhole 754 after the insert 704 ispulled out of the body 702. The user can insert the key into the keyhole754 and rotate the key to pivot or rotate the keylock 748.

The keylock 748 includes an interface (e.g., a tab, a protrusion, an endprotrusion, etc.), shown as protrusion 770. The protrusion 770 isconfigured to be received within or interface with a correspondinginterface (e.g., a groove, recess, etc.), shown as recess 766, of alocking member, shown as retainer 764. In some embodiments, the retainer764 is the same as or similar to the retainer 664. Likewise, the keylock748 can be the same as or similar to the keylock 648.

The insert 704 includes a track 768 that extends laterally through theinsert 704. In some embodiments, the track 768 is the same as or similarto the track 668. The track 768 is configured to receive the retainer764 such that the retainer 764 can translate or slide along the track786. The retainer 764 is driven to translate or slide along the track786 by rotation of the key inserted into the keyhole 754 of the keylock748 through the engagement between the protrusion 770 and the recess766.

The retainer 764 can transition between a locked position/configuration(shown in FIGS. 4H and 4I), and an unlocked configuration/position. Insome embodiments, the retainer 764 translates to the unlockedconfiguration/position to allow access to the inner locking volume 762through the longitudinal cavity 746. The longitudinal cavity 746 and theinner locking volume 762 can extend laterally through an entire width ofthe body 702. The longitudinal cavity 746 and the inner locking volume762 can receive the flexible member 542 similarly to the longitudinalcavity 646 and the inner locking volume 662. The operation and use ofthe lock 600 and the lock 700 is described in greater detail herein withreference to FIG. 4R.

As shown in FIGS. 4K and 4L, a fourth lock (e.g., a lock, a lockingapparatus, a locking device, a securing device, etc.), shown as lock800, of the locking system 400 includes a body member, shown as body802. The body 802 includes a first, proximate end, shown as front end806, and a second, distal end, shown as rear end 808. In someembodiments, the body 802 has a square cross-sectional shape. In otherembodiments, the body 802 has a circular cross-sectional shape, arectangular cross-sectional shape, an irregular cross-sectional shape,or any other suitable cross-sectional shape. The body 802 can be fixedlycoupled with the frame 12 (e.g., the down tube 30) of the bicycle 10. Insome embodiments, the body 802 is fastened, frictionally coupled,welded, integrally formed, etc., with the frame 12.

The body 802 defines an aperture (e.g., a channel, a groove, a passage,etc.), shown as channel 810, that extends longitudinally through thebody 802. The channel 810 is configured to receive the flexible member542. The channel 810 extends from the rear end 808 of the body 802 tothe front end 806 of the body 802. In some embodiments, the body 802includes a stepped portion at the front end 806 of the body 802 near thechannel 810 that is configured to engage a corresponding stepped portionof the flexible member 542 to facilitate preventing an end of theflexible member 542 from being completely retracted into the body 802and the frame 12 of the bicycle 10.

The flexible member 542 includes an end (e.g., a male end, a malelocking portion, a post, a pin, etc.), shown as male locking portion824. In some embodiments, the male locking portion 824 is fixedlycoupled with an end of the flexible member 542. The male locking portion824 can include an annular groove that is configured to interlock with acorresponding female portion or interface.

The body 802 includes a flange 816 that extends outwards from the body802 at the front end 806 thereof. In some embodiments, the flange 816 isconfigured to engage a corresponding portion of the frame 12 of thebicycle 10. The flange 816 can be configured to engage a surface of theframe 12 (e.g., the down tube 30) of the bicycle 10 that is recessedrelative to or sub-flush with an exterior surface of the frame 12. Inthis way, an exterior surface of the flange 816 may be flush orsub-flush with the exterior surface of the frame 12. The flange 816 canbe the same as or similar to any of the flanges 716, 616, and 516, andprovides additional contact area to secure and fixedly couple the lock800 with the frame 12 (e.g., the down tube 30) of the bicycle 10.

In some embodiments, the lock 800 includes a curved portion (e.g., aguide portion, a sweep, etc.), shown as guide portion 804, that extendsfrom the rear end 808 of the body 802. The guide portion 804 can be acurved member that guides the flexible member 542 from within the frame12 of the bicycle 10 to the channel 810. In some embodiments, the guideportion 804 is reinforced with a structural member 820 that extends in adirection substantially perpendicular with the guide portion 804 betweenthe guide portion 804 and the body 802. In some embodiments, thestructural member 820 is a rib or a reinforcing member. The guideportion 804 and the structural member 820 can be integrally formed withbody 802. The guide portion 804 is configured to slidably interface withthe flexible member 542 and facilitates guiding the flexible member 542into the channel 810. The guide portion 804 can be a 90 degree elbow orarcuate portion.

The body 802 includes a recess (e.g., a groove, a channel, a slot,etc.), shown as groove 822, that extends along an outer face of the body802 at the front end 806 of the body 802. The channel 810 extends intothe groove 822. The groove 822 facilitates positioning the male lockingportion 824 of the flexible member 542 sub-flush or flush with theexterior face of the body 802.

The body 802 includes a cylinder (e.g., a lock, a locking device, alocking apparatus, a keylock, a locking cylinder, etc.), shown askeylock 848. In some embodiments, the keylock 848 is received within acorresponding opening (e.g., channel, groove, bore, aperture, etc.), ofthe body 802, shown as bore 850. The bore 850 extends longitudinallythrough the body 802. In some embodiments, the bore 850 extends onlypartially through an entire longitudinal length of the body 802 (e.g.,the bore 850 is a blind-hole). In other embodiments, the bore 850extends completely through the entire longitudinal length of the body802 (e.g., the bore 850 is a through-hole).

The keylock 848 is rotatably or pivotally and/or slidably coupled withthe body 802 within the bore 850. In some embodiments, an exteriorcylindrical surface of the keylock 848 slidably engages a correspondingcylindrical inner surface of the body 802 defined by the bore 850. Thekeylock 848 includes a keyhole 854 that is configured to receive anengage a key therewithin. In some embodiments, after the key is insertedinto the keyhole 854, the keylock 848 can be rotated or pivoted aboutits longitudinal axis.

The body 802 defines an aperture (e.g., a receiving aperture, a hole, ablind hole, a bore, etc.), shown as locking aperture 818. In someembodiments, the locking aperture 818 includes a female locking portionpositioned therein that is configured to engage and lock with (e.g.,selectably fixedly couple with) the male locking portion 824. In someembodiments, the locking aperture 818 has a shape that corresponds to anouter periphery of the male locking portion 824. For example, thelocking aperture 818 can have a circular-cross sectional shape that issized to receive male locking portion 824. By way of example, the lock800 may include an interlocking member that is the same as or similar tothe retainer 534. In some embodiments, rotation of the key that isinserted into the keyhole 854 transitions the female locking portionbetween an engaged or locked position/configuration and a disengaged orunlocked position/configuration. In some embodiments, rotation of thekeylock 848 (e.g., by rotating the key inserted into the keyhole 854)transitions the female locking portion between the engaged and thedisengaged positions. In some embodiments, rotation of the keylock 848translates or pivots the interlocking member to engage or disengage themale locking portion 824.

The flexible member 542 and the male locking portion 824 can be drawnout of the body 802, wrapped around an object, and inserted into thelocking aperture 818. In some embodiments, once the male locking portion824 is inserted into the locking aperture 818, the keylock 848 can betransitioned from the disengaged or unlocked configuration/position tothe engaged or locked configuration/position to fixedly couple the malelocking portion 824 with the body 802 (e.g., by rotating the key that isinserted into the keyhole 854). In this way, the flexible member 542 canextend or be extended from the body 802 of the lock 800, wrapped aroundan object, and locked to the body 802 at the locking aperture 818. Theoperation and use of the lock 800 is described in greater detail belowwith reference to FIG. 4S.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 4M-4P, any one of the lock 500, the lock600, the lock 700, or the lock 800 can be integrated into the frame 12of the bicycle 10. In some embodiments, the lock 500/600/700/800 isfixedly coupled with and/or integrated with the down tube 30 (as shownin FIGS. 4M-4P). In other embodiments, the lock 500/600/700/800 isfixedly coupled with and/or integrated with the top tube 90, the seattube 70, the head tube 20, etc. The lock 500/600/700/800 can extend intoan inner volume, shown as interior 34, of the down tube 30 (or otherportion of the frame 12). The lock 500/600/700/800 can be receivedwithin a correspondingly shaped and sized aperture or opening, shown asopening 36, of the down tube 30 and is fixedly coupled with the downtube 30. The lock 500/600/700/800 can be fixedly coupled with the downtube 30 using a weld, fasteners, a frictional engagement, etc., or maybe integrally formed with the down tube 30.

Referring particularly to FIGS. 4Q-4S, the locking system 400 (e.g., anintegrated locking apparatus, an integrated locking system, etc.) can beused to selectively secure the bicycle 10 with an object 404. The object404 may be a stationary object that is adequately anchored (e.g., alight post, a fence post, a bicycle rack, etc.). The flexible member 542can be stored within and extendable from down tube 30. In someembodiments, the flexible member 542 is secured with the down tube 30 bya securing mechanism 402. In some embodiments, the securing mechanism402 is also a retraction mechanism such that the flexible member 542 isautomatically retracted into the down tube 30.

As shown in FIG. 4Q, the locking system 400 includes the lock 500. Thebody 502 of the lock 500 is fixedly coupled (e.g., fastened, welded,integrally formed, etc.) with the down tube 30 of the bicycle 10. Insome embodiments, the down tube 30 is a tubular frame member that hasthe interior 34 in which the flexible member 542 can be stored, and outof which the flexible member 542 can be extended or extracted. The body502 of the lock 500 can be positioned and fixedly coupled with the downtube 30 such that an exterior surface of the flange 516 is flush orsub-flush with an exterior surface of the down tube 30. For example, theflange 516 can be received within a recess, a groove, a depression, etc.in a wall of the down tube 30.

The insert 504 can be removed from the body 502 (e.g., selectivelyde-coupled from the body 502 by pressing the button 524) and extended orpulled from the down tube 30. As the insert 504 is extended from thedown tube 30, the flexible member 542 is extended from inside of thedown tube 30. The insert 504 and the flexible member 542 can then bewrapped around the object 404. The insert 504 can then be re-insertedinto the cavity 508 of the body 502 (e.g., in the configuration shown inFIGS. 4C and 4D) and locked with the body 502. Advantageously, thissecures the bicycle 10 with the object 404 and facilitates deterringtheft of the bicycle 10.

As shown in FIG. 4R, the locking system 400 includes the lock 600 or thelock 700. The body 602/702 of the lock 600/700 is fixedly coupled withthe down tube 30. In some embodiments, the body 602/702 is fixedlycoupled with the down tube 30 similarly or the same as the body 502 ofthe lock 500 is fixedly coupled with the down tube 30 (e.g., fixedlycoupled, fastened, welded, integrally formed, etc.).

The insert 604/704 can be removed from the body 602/702 and wrappedaround the object 404. In some embodiments, the insert 704 is firstrotated a predetermined angular amount so that the engagement protrusion790 can pass through the second aperture 784. The insert 604/704 canthen be secured with the flexible member 542. In some embodiments, theinsert 604/704 is transitioned into the disengaged or unlocked positionby inserting the key into the keyhole 654/754 and rotating the key.Rotating the key drives the keylock 648/748 to rotate, thereby drivingthe retainer 664/764 to translate and allowing the flexible member 542to be inserted into the inner locking volume 662/762. After the flexiblemember 542 is inserted into the inner locking volume 662/762 of theinsert 604/704, the user can rotate or pivot the key to transition thekeylock 648/748 and the retainer 664/764 into the locked or engagedconfiguration to secure the bicycle 10 with object 404. To release thebicycle 10 from the object 404, the key can be re-inserted into thekeylock 648/748, rotated in the opposite direction to allow the flexiblemember 542 to be released from the insert 604/704, and the flexiblemember 542 can be retracted into the down tube 30.

As shown in FIG. 4S, the locking system 400 includes the lock 800. Thebody 802 of the lock 800 is fixedly coupled with the down tube 30 of thebicycle 10. The flexible member 542 is extendable from the interior 34of the down tube 30 and can be drawn out of the down tube 30 through thebody 802. The flexible member 542 can be wrapped around the object 404and inserted into the locking aperture 818. The male locking portion 824can be inserted into the locking aperture 818 to secure and fixedlycouple the free end of the flexible member 542 with the body 802. Themale locking portion 824 can interlock within the locking aperture 818by simply being inserted into the locking aperture 818, or by beinginserted into the locking aperture 818 and then engaged by inserting akey into the keyhole 854 and rotating the keylock 848. The male lockingportion 824 can be disengaged or selectively de-coupled from the body802 by insertion and rotation of the key into the keyhole 854 in anopposite direction to disengage the male locking portion 824.

In some embodiments, the locking system 400 does not include the lock500, the lock 600, the lock 700, or the lock 800. In such embodiments,the locking system 400 may rather include a retaining element (e.g., abar, a U-bar, etc.) extending across the opening 36. Therefore, anindependent lock (e.g. a U-lock, a cable lock, etc.) can be loopedaround the retaining element to secure the bicycle 10 to the object 404.

Referring now to FIGS. 4T-4V, various embodiments of the securingmechanism 402 are shown. It should be understood that any combination ofthe securing mechanism 402 shown in FIGS. 4T-4V are within the scope ofthe present disclosure, and that the flexible member 542 can be securedwith the down tube 30 or automatically retracted into the down tube 30by the securing mechanism 402. Further, any of the embodiments of thesecuring mechanism 402 shown in FIGS. 4T-4V and described in detail withreference to FIGS. 4T-4V can be used with any of the lock 500, the lock600, the lock 700, or the lock 800.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4T, the securing mechanism 402 includes alinear biasing element, shown spring 406, that is anchored to or fixedlycoupled with an end of the flexible member 542. In some embodiments, thespring 406 is fixedly coupled with the down tube 30. The spring 406 canbe positioned within the interior 34 of the down tube 30. The spring 406can be extended a predetermined length to facilitate extension of theflexible member 542. As the flexible member 542 is drawn out of the downtube 30, the spring 406 exerts a recoil force or a return force to theflexible member 542 to draw the flexible member 542 back into the downtube 30. Advantageously, the spring 406 facilitates an automaticretraction of the flexible member 542 into the down tube 30.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4U, the securing mechanism 402 includes aretraction mechanism, shown as torsional spring 408. The torsionalspring 408 is configured to retract the flexible member 542 into thedown tube 30. Drawing or pulling the flexible member 542 out of the downtube 30 may load the torsional spring 408 such that when the flexiblemember 542 is released, the torsional spring 408 draws the flexiblemember 542 into the down tube 30. The flexible member 542 can be woundonto a spool and stored within the down tube 30 until it is extendedfrom the down tube 30 for securing the bicycle 10. The torsional spring408 can drive the spool to wind the flexible member 542 onto the spool.The spool can be pivotally coupled within the interior 34 of the downtube 30.

Referring particularly to FIG. 4V, the down tube 30 includes an orificeplate, structural members, laterally extending members, etc., shown asengagement members 414. The engagement members 414 can be fixedlycoupled with the down tube 30 and may extend inwards to define anopening, a window, an aperture, an orifice, etc., shown as opening 416.In some embodiments, the opening 416 is a circular opening, a squareopening, an irregularly shaped opening, etc., or any other shape. Theflexible member 542 includes a stopper, a ball-shaped member, etc.,shown as stopper 410. The stopper 410 is fixedly coupled with an end ofthe flexible member 542 and can have a cross-sectional area or size thatis greater than the cross-sectional area or size of the opening 416. Theflexible member 542 can be extended or drawn a length 412 out of thedown tube 30 until the stopper 410 contacts the engagement members 414.In this way, the stopper 410 and the engagement members 414 facilitatepreventing the flexible member 542 from being completely drawn out ofthe down tube 30.

Storage Compartment

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5F, the storage compartment 900 is integrated intothe down tube 30 of the frame 12. In other embodiments, the storagecompartment 900 is integrated into another portion of the frame 12(e.g., the top tube 90, the seat stays 80, the seat tube 70, etc.). Asshown in FIGS. 5A-5F, the storage compartment 900 includes a panel, lidor cover, shown as door 910; an insert, receptacle, vessel, orcontainer, shown as tub 920; an adapter, shown as bracket 940; and alocking system, shown as locking assembly 950. As shown in FIGS. 5B-5F,the door 910, the tub 920, and the interior 34 of the down tube 30cooperatively define a cavity, shown as interior cavity 902, of thestorage compartment 900.

As shown in FIGS. 5C-5F, the door 910 is configured as a plate, shown aspanel 912, having (i) an interface, shown as door retainer 914,extending from an inner side of the panel 912 at a first end thereof and(ii) a coupler, shown as arm 916, extending from an inner side of thepanel 912 at an opposing second end thereof and having a “U-shaped”profile. The arm 916 is positioned to engage with an interface, shown ashinge 38, disposed within the interior 34 of the down tube 30 (e.g.,along an interior wall of the down tube 30, etc.) to pivotally couplethe door 910 to an interior surface of the down tube 30. The doorretainer 914 is positioned to (i) selectively engage a component (e.g.,a latch, etc.) of the locking assembly 950 to selectively secure thedoor 910 in a closed positioned (see, e.g., FIGS. 5A and 5D-5F) suchthat the door 910 encloses an opening, shown as down tube opening 32,defined by the down tube 30 and (ii) selectively disengage the componentof the locking assembly 950 such that the door 910 is selectivelyopenable (see, e.g., FIGS. 5B and 5C) to facilitate selectivelyaccessing the interior cavity 902 through the down tube opening 32. Asshown in FIGS. 5D-5F, the tub 920 is longer than the door 910 such thatthe interior cavity 902 extends beyond the interface between the hinge38 and the arm 916 into the interior 34 of the down tube 30 (i.e., theinterior cavity 902 is longer than the down tube opening 32).

As shown in FIGS. 5B-5F, the tub 920 is disposed within the interior 34of the down tube 30. According to the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 5B-5F, the tub 920 is releasably secured to an interior wall ofthe down tube 30 by the bracket 940. According to an exemplaryembodiment, the tub 920 is installed within the down tube 30 by (i)removing the battery pack 204 from the center recess 44 of the centralhub 40 (if already installed), (ii) inserting the bracket 940 throughthe center opening 42 into the center recess 44 of the central hub 40,(iii) pushing the bracket 940 through the central hub 40 into theinterior 34 of the down tube 30, (iv) securing the bracket 940 to theinterior wall of the down tube 30 beneath the down tube opening 32, (v)inserting the tub 920 through the center opening 42 into the centerrecess 44 of the central hub 40, (vi) pushing the tub 920 through thecentral hub 40 into the interior 34 of the down tube 30, and (vii)securing the tub 920 to the bracket 940. In other embodiments, the tub920 is fixedly secured to or integrally formed with the interior wall ofthe down tube 30 (e.g., adhesively secured, welded, bonded, etc.).

As shown in FIGS. 5G-5I, the tub 920 has a body formed by a bottom wall,shown as bottom 922; a pair of longitudinal sidewalls, shown assidewalls 924, extending along and from opposing longitudinal edges ofthe bottom 922; a first lateral wall, shown as rear wall 926, extendingalong and from a rear edge of the bottom 922 and connecting first endsof the sidewalls 924 together; and an opposing second lateral wall,shown as front wall 928, extending along and from a front edge of thebottom 922 and connecting opposing second ends of the sidewalls 924together. As shown in FIGS. 5G and 5I, the rear wall 926 is taller thanthe front wall 928 such that the sidewalls 924 have a non-uniform ortapered profile (e.g., to accommodate a bend in the down tube 30, etc.).In other embodiments, the sidewalls 924 have a uniform or substantiallyuniform profile.

As shown in FIGS. 5H and 5I, the bottom 922 defines an interface, shownas bracket interface 930, that facilitates releasably coupling the tub920 to the bracket 940. The bracket interface 930 includes a centralportion, shown as detent 932; defines a plurality of apertures, shown asapertures 934, positioned at the corners of the detent 932; and includesa plurality of pads, shown as pads 936, positioned proximate theapertures 934. As shown in FIG. 5J, the bracket 940 includes alongitudinal, central portion, shown as base 942, having a pair ofinterfaces, shown as interfaces 944, positioned at opposing ends of thebase 942 with each of the interfaces 944 having opposing flanges, shownas flanges 946, extending laterally outward from the base 942. Accordingto an exemplary embodiment, the detent 932 of the tub 920 is configuredto interface with the base 942 of the bracket 940 and the flanges 946are positioned to extend through the apertures 934 and engage the pads936. A plurality of fasteners may then be used to secure the pads 936 tothe flanges 946 to secure the tub 920 to the bracket 940 and the downtube 30. In some embodiments, the pads 936 of the tub 920 definethreaded apertures or include threaded inserts.

In some embodiments, the interior surface of the bottom 922 has acoating or includes an additional layer or mat disposed thereon toprovide increased friction between the bottom 922 and items within theinterior cavity 902 to prevent the items from shifting during use of thebicycle 10. In some embodiments, the bottom 922 defines a hole (e.g., adrain hole, etc.) to allow rain or other liquid to drain from thestorage compartment 900 in the event that water enters the interiorcavity 902. In some embodiments, the door 910 includes a seal thatprovides a substantially water-tight seal between the door 910 and thedown tube opening 32.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, the locking assembly 950is or includes as second locking mechanism, shown as locking mechanism960, positioned between the down tube opening 32 and the center opening42. As shown in FIG. 5D, the locking mechanism 960 includes (i) acylinder, shown as lock cylinder 962, configured to interface with a keyand (ii) a latching mechanism, shown as latch 964, positioned toselectively engage with the door retainer 914 of the door 910 toselectively lock the storage compartment 900. According to an exemplaryembodiment, engagement of a key with the lock cylinder 962 releases thelatch 964 from the door retainer 914 of the door 910.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5E, the lockingassembly 950 is or includes a third locking mechanism, shown as lockingmechanism 970, connected to the lock 258. In such an embodiment, thelock 258 may function as a dual-actuating locking mechanism. By way ofexample, (i) turning a key in the lock cylinder 280 of the lock 258 in afirst direction (e.g., counterclockwise, clockwise, etc.) may releasethe battery pack 204 from the center recess 44 and (ii) turning the keyin the lock cylinder 280 in an opposing second direction (e.g.,clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.) may release a latch of the lockingmechanism 970 from the door retainer 914 and facilitate opening the door910.

As shown in FIG. 5E, the locking mechanism 970 includes a latchingmechanism, shown as latch 972, and a pivotal member, shown as flap 980.The latch 972 has a body, shown as latch body 974, that defines a firstrecess, shown as front recess 976, and a second recess, shown as rearrecess 978. The flap 980 has a base, shown as pivot 982, and anextension, shown as arm 984, extending from the pivot 982. The arm 984is positioned to interface with the rear recess 978 such that actuationof the flap 980 rotates the arm 984 about the pivot 982 and pulls thelatch 972 out of engagement with the door retainer 914 of the door 910.The front recess 976 engages with a retainer, shown as latch retainer979, positioned to prevent over-retracting the latch 972.

As shown in FIG. 5E, the locking mechanism 970 includes a cable, shownas door cable 990, that extends between the flap 980 and the lock 258such that engagement of a key with the lock cylinder 280 of the lock 258facilitates pulling on the door cable 990, thereby actuating the flap980 to retract the latch 972. In some embodiments, the pivot 982 and/orthe latch 972 are biased via a resilient element (e.g., a torsionspring, a linear spring, etc.) such that the latch 972 returns to anengaged position and interfaces with the door retainer 914 to lock thedoor 910.

As shown in FIG. 5F, the door cable 990 of the locking mechanism 970 isreplaced with an actuator (e.g., a latch motor, etc.), shown as electricactuator 992, coupled to the pivot 982 of the flap 980 such that theelectric actuator 992 is a rotational actuator. In other embodiments,the electric actuator 992 is coupled to the arm 984 of the flap 980 ordirectly to the latch 972. In some embodiments, gearing or othertransmission elements are positioned between the electric actuator 992and the flap 980 and/or the latch 972. The electric actuator 992 maythereby be a linear actuator or a rotational actuator. The electricactuator 992 may be powered by the battery pack 204. In someembodiments, the electric actuator 992 is activated in response to a keyengaging the lock cylinder 280 of the lock 258. In other embodiments,the electric actuator 992 is activated in response to a signal from anexternal device (e.g., a user's portable device, a key fob, etc.). Allsuch variations are explained in greater detail with reference to FIG. 6.

Control System

As shown in FIG. 6 , the bicycle control system 1000 includes acontroller, shown as bicycle controller 1010. In one embodiment, thebicycle controller 1010 is configured to selectively engage, selectivelydisengage, control, and/or otherwise communicate with components of thebicycle 10. As shown in FIG. 6 , the bicycle controller 1010 is coupledto the lock cylinder 280, the lighting system 300, the electric actuator992, a communication system, shown as communication unit 1020, and aninput, shown as user interface 1030. In other embodiments, the bicyclecontroller 1010 is coupled to more or fewer components. By way ofexample, the locking assembly 950 may not include the electric actuator992. In such an embodiment, the bicycle controller 1010 may not beconnected to the lock cylinder 280 or the electric actuator 992. By wayof another example, the electric actuator 992 may be activatedindependently of the lock cylinder 280. In such an embodiment, thebicycle controller 1010 may not be connected to the lock cylinder 280.By way of still another example, the bicycle control system 1000 mayinclude a GPS chip to facilitate monitoring and tracking the currentlocation of the bicycle 10.

The bicycle controller 1010 may be implemented as a general-purposeprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one ormore field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a digital-signal-processor(DSP), circuits containing one or more processing components, circuitryfor supporting a microprocessor, a group of processing components, orother suitable electronic processing components. According to theexemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , the bicycle controller 1010includes a processing circuit 1012 and a memory 1014. The processingcircuit 1012 may include an ASIC, one or more FPGAs, a DSP, circuitscontaining one or more processing components, circuitry for supporting amicroprocessor, a group of processing components, or other suitableelectronic processing components. In some embodiments, the processingcircuit 1012 is configured to execute computer code stored in the memory1014 to facilitate the activities described herein. The memory 1014 maybe any volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage medium capableof storing data or computer code relating to the activities describedherein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory 1014 includescomputer code modules (e.g., executable code, object code, source code,script code, machine code, etc.) configured for execution by theprocessing circuit 1012.

The communication unit 1020 may be configured to facilitate wirelesscommunication with an external device. By way of example, thecommunication unit 1020 may facilitate short-range wirelesscommunication using a variety of communication protocols such asBluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), radio frequency identification(RFID), Zigbee, near-field communication (NFC), and/or other suitableshort-range communication protocols. By way of another example, thecommunication unit 1020 may facilitate long-range wireless communicationusing a variety of communication protocols such as cellular and/or othersuitable long-range communication protocols. By way of example, thecommunication unit 1020 may facilitate connecting the bicycle controlsystem 1000 to a user's personal device (e.g., smartphone, etc.) toallow the user to control various functions from their personal device(e.g., activate the lighting system 300, activate the electric actuator992, engage/disengage the locking system 400, etc.). By way of anotherexample, the communication unit 1020 may facilitate detecting a key fobor similar passive key-like device that allows the user to activatevarious functions of the bicycle 10 (e.g., active the electric actuator992, activate the lighting system 300, engage/disengage the lockingsystem 400, etc.). The user interface 1030 may be or include variousbuttons, switches, dials, displays, brake levers, an accelerator, and/orthe like.

In some embodiments (e.g., embodiments where the locking assembly 950includes the electric actuator 992 and is controlled by engagement ofthe lock cylinder 280, etc.), the bicycle controller 1010 is configuredto receive a signal from the lock cylinder 280 in response to a keyengaging therewith and activate the electric actuator 992 to unlock thedoor 910 based on the signal. In some embodiments (e.g., embodimentswhere the locking assembly 950 includes the electric actuator 992 and isnot controlled by engagement of the lock cylinder 280, etc.), thebicycle controller 1010 is configured to receive a signal from thecommunication unit 1020 based on communication with an external deviceand activate the electric actuator 992 to unlock the door 910 based onthe signal.

In some embodiments, the bicycle controller 1010 is configured toactivate the lighting system 300 based on a user input via the userinterface 1030 and/or the external device. By way of example, thebicycle controller 1010 may (i) activate the taillights 302 or cause theintensity of the taillights 302 to increase in response to the userengaging the brake lever and (ii) disengage the taillights 302 or causethe intensity of the taillights 302 to decrease in response to the userdisengaging the brake lever. By way of another example, the bicyclecontroller 1010 may be configured to activate/deactivate the taillights302 and/or the headlight 304 in response to receiving a user command viathe user interface 1030 and/or the external device. By way of anotherexample, the bicycle controller 1010 may be configured to flash one orboth of the taillights in response to receiving a user command via theuser interface 1030 to activate a turning signal or hazard lighting. Insome embodiments, the bicycle controller 1010 is configured toautomatically activate the lighting system 300 based on the time of dayand/or the intensity of ambient light (e.g., determined based on asignal from a clock/timer, based on a signal from a light sensor, etc.).

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”,and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony withthe common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art towhich the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should beunderstood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure thatthese terms are intended to allow a description of certain featuresdescribed and claimed without restricting the scope of these features tothe precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms shouldbe interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequentialmodifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimedare considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited inthe appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, asused herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicatethat such embodiments are possible examples, representations, orillustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intendedto connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary orsuperlative examples).

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means thejoining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Suchjoining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g.,removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the twomembers coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled toeach other using a separate intervening member and any additionalintermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two memberscoupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrallyformed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If“coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term(e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” providedabove is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term(e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without anyseparate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition thanthe generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may bemechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,”“above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of variouselements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation ofvarious elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments,and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the presentdisclosure.

The hardware and data processing components used to implement thevarious processes, operations, illustrative logics, logical blocks,modules and circuits described in connection with the embodimentsdisclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purposesingle- or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), anapplication specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmablegate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate ortransistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combinationthereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A generalpurpose processor may be a microprocessor, or, any conventionalprocessor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processoralso may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as acombination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, particularprocesses and methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific toa given function. The memory (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device)may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard diskstorage) for storing data and/or computer code for completing orfacilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in thepresent disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile memory ornon-volatile memory, and may include database components, object codecomponents, script components, or any other type of informationstructure for supporting the various activities and informationstructures described in the present disclosure. According to anexemplary embodiment, the memory is communicably connected to theprocessor via a processing circuit and includes computer code forexecuting (e.g., by the processing circuit or the processor) the one ormore processes described herein.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and programproducts on any machine-readable media for accomplishing variousoperations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implementedusing existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computerprocessor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or anotherpurpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of thepresent disclosure include program products comprising machine-readablemedia for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or datastructures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be anyavailable media that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example,such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, orother optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magneticstorage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or storedesired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions ordata structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose orspecial purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinationsof the above are also included within the scope of machine-readablemedia. Machine-executable instructions include, for example,instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, specialpurpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform acertain function or group of functions.

Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order ofmethod steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depictedand described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or moresteps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unlessspecified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, onthe software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. Allsuch variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise,software implementations of the described methods could be accomplishedwith standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and otherlogic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps,comparison steps, and decision steps.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of thebicycle 10 and the systems and components thereof as shown in thevarious exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, anyelement disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized withany other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of anelement from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized inanother embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciatedthat other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated orutilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A bicycle comprising: a frame including: ahead tube; a stem pivotally coupled to the head tube; a down tubecoupled to the head tube, the down tube defining a compartment opening;a central hub coupled to the down tube opposite the head tube, thecentral hub defining an internal cavity, and the down tube and thecentral hub cooperatively defining a battery opening connected to theinternal cavity; and a pair of chain stays extending rearward of thecentral hub, the pair of chain stays including (i) a right chain stayterminating with a right dropout and (ii) a left chain stay terminatingwith a left dropout, wherein the right dropout defines a right recessand the left dropout defines a left recess; a storage compartmentincluding: a door pivotally coupled to the down tube and positioned toselectively enclose the compartment opening; and a receptacle disposedwithin the interior of the frame and positioned beneath the compartmentopening; a battery pack releasably received by the battery opening andat least partially recessed within the internal cavity of the centralhub; a pedal assist unit disposed within the internal cavity of thecentral hub and powered by the battery pack; and a lighting systemconnected to the battery pack with wires extending internally throughthe frame, the lighting system including: a right taillight disposedwithin the right recess; and a left taillight disposed within the leftrecess; wherein the right taillight and the left taillight extend alonga rear surface and a side surface of the right dropout and the leftdropout, respectively.
 2. The bicycle of claim 1, wherein thereceptacle, the door, and the down tube cooperatively define an interiorchamber, and wherein the interior chamber is longer than the door suchthat the interior chamber extends along the down tube beyond thecompartment opening.
 3. The bicycle of claim 1, further comprising ahinge positioned within the down tube proximate an end of thecompartment opening, wherein the door includes an arm that extends intothe down tube and is pivotally coupled to the hinge.
 4. The bicycle ofclaim 1, further comprising a door locking mechanism including a latchpositioned to selectively engage a retainer of the door to lock the doorin a closed position, wherein the latch is positioned within the downtube.
 5. The bicycle of claim 4, wherein the door locking mechanismincludes a key interface positioned along an exterior of the frame,wherein engagement of the key interface using a key selectivelydisengages the latch from the retainer.
 6. The bicycle of claim 4,wherein the door locking mechanism includes an actuator coupled to thelatch, wherein the actuator is electrically operated by the battery packto facilitate selectively disengaging the latch from the retainer. 7.The bicycle of claim 6, wherein the door locking mechanism includes akey interface, wherein the actuator is selectively operated in responseto engagement of the key interface using a key.
 8. The bicycle of claim6, further comprising a wireless communication unit, wherein theactuator is selectively operated in response to the wirelesscommunication unit receiving a signal from an external device.
 9. Thebicycle of claim 1, wherein the battery pack has an exterior surfacewith a first portion extending along the down tube and a second portionextending along the central hub such that the first portion is angledrelative to the second portion.
 10. The bicycle of claim 1, furthercomprising a key interface positioned along an exterior of the frame,wherein turning a key in the key interface releases the battery pack tofacilitate removing the battery pack from the frame.
 11. The bicycle ofclaim 10, wherein turning the key in a first direction within the keyinterface releases the battery pack to facilitate removing the batterypack from the frame, and wherein turning the key in an opposing seconddirection within the key interface releases the door to facilitateaccessing the storage compartment.
 12. The bicycle of claim 1, whereinthe frame defines a lock aperture, further comprising a locking systemreceived by the lock aperture and extending into the frame, and whereinthe locking system includes: a cable stored in and selectivelyextendable from the frame, the cable having a free end; and a housingdisposed within the lock aperture, the housing having a first endpositioned along an exterior of the frame and an opposing second endpositioned within the frame, the housing defining: a first boreextending through the housing from the first end to the opposing secondend, the cable at least partially stored within the first bore; a secondbore extending from the first end at least partially through the housingtoward the opposing second end, wherein the second bore is configured toselective receive and secure the free end of the cable therein; a thirdbore extending from the first end at least partially through the housingtoward the opposing second end; and a guide extending from the opposingsecond end of the housing, the guide positioned configured to direct thecable from within the frame into the first bore; and a key interfacedisposed within the third bore, wherein engagement of the key interfaceusing a key releases the free end of the cable from the second bore whenthe free end of the cable is secured therein.
 13. The bicycle of claim1, wherein the frame defines a lock aperture, further comprising alocking system received by the lock aperture and extending into theframe, and wherein the locking system includes: a housing disposedwithin the lock aperture, the housing defining a chamber, the housingincluding: a front end positioned along an exterior of the frame, thefront end defining a first aperture; a rear end positioned within theframe, the rear end defining a second aperture; and a pin extending fromthe rear end at least partially through the chamber; an insert having afirst end and an opposing second end, the insert selectively insertablethrough the first aperture into the chamber of the housing (i) in afirst orientation with the opposing second end first and (ii) in asecond orientation with the first end first, the insert defining (a) afirst bore extending through the insert from the first end to theopposing second end and (b) a second bore extending from the opposingsecond end at least partially through the insert toward the first end,the first bore positioned to receive the pin when the insert is insertedinto the chamber in the first orientation and the second orientation,the insert including: a retainer positioned to selectively engage thepin of the housing when the pin is received within the first bore; abutton positioned along the first end, the button configured tofacilitate disengaging the retainer from the pin of the housing tofacilitate removing the insert from the chamber when (i) the insert isin the first orientation and (ii) the button is depressed; and a keyinterface positioned along the opposing second end, the key interfaceconfigured to facilitate disengaging the retainer from the pin of thehousing to facilitate removing the insert from the chamber when (i) theinsert is in the second orientation and (ii) the key interface is engagewith a key; and a cable stored in and extendable from the frame, thecable extending through the second aperture of the housing and having anend secured in the second bore of the insert.
 14. The bicycle of claim1, wherein the frame defines a lock aperture, further comprising alocking system received by the lock aperture and extending into theframe, and wherein the locking system includes: a housing disposedwithin the lock aperture, the housing defining a chamber, the housingincluding: a front end positioned along an exterior of the frame, thefront end defining a first aperture; and a rear end positioned withinthe frame, the rear end defining a second aperture; an insertselectively insertable through the first aperture into the chamber ofthe housing, the insert including: a first end defining a channel; anopposing second end; a slot proximate the first end, the slot extendingperpendicular to the channel; a retainer slidably positioned within theslot and selectively extendable across the channel; a first boreextending from the opposing second end at least partially through theinsert toward the first end; a second bore extending from the opposingsecond end at least partially through the insert toward the first end;and a key interface disposed within the first bore, wherein engagementof the key interface using a key translates the retainer along the slotbetween a first position where the retainer extends across the channeland a second position where the retainer does not extend across thechannel; and a cable stored in and extendable from the frame, the cableextending through the second aperture of the housing and having an endsecured in the second bore of the insert.
 15. The bicycle of claim 1,wherein the lighting system includes a conspicuity lamp integrated intothe head tube.
 16. A bicycle comprising: a frame including: a head tube;a stem pivotally coupled to the head tube; a down tube coupled to thehead tube, the down tube defining a compartment opening; a central hubcoupled to the down tube opposite the head tube, the central hubdefining an internal cavity, and the down tube and the central hubcooperatively defining a battery opening connected to the internalcavity; and a pair of chain stays extending rearward of the central hub,the pair of chain stays including (i) a right chain stay terminatingwith a right dropout and (ii) a left chain stay terminating with a leftdropout, wherein the right dropout defines a right recess and the leftdropout defines a left recess; a storage compartment including: a doorpivotally coupled to the down tube and positioned to selectively enclosethe compartment opening; and a receptacle disposed within the interiorof the frame and positioned beneath the compartment opening; a batterypack releasably received by the battery opening and at least partiallyrecessed within the internal cavity of the central hub; a pedal assistunit disposed within the internal cavity of the central hub and poweredby the battery pack; and a lighting system connected to the battery packwith wires extending internally through the frame, the lighting systemincluding: a right taillight disposed within the right recess; a lefttaillight disposed within the left recess; a conspicuity lamp integratedinto the head tube; and a headlight wherein the headlight provides moreillumination than the conspicuity lamp; wherein a direction ofillumination of the conspicuity lamp is stationary relative to the headtube; and wherein a direction of illumination of the headlight isvariable relative to the head tube.
 17. The bicycle of claim 16, whereinthe right taillight and the left taillight extend along a rear surfaceand a side surface of the right dropout and the left dropout,respectively.
 18. A bicycle comprising: a frame including: a head tube;a down tube coupled to the head tube; a central hub coupled to an end ofthe down tube opposite the head tube, the central hub defining aninternal cavity and including a mount positioned at least partiallydirectly underneath the internal cavity, an upper surface of the downtube and the central hub cooperatively defining an opening connected andproviding access to the internal cavity; and a pair of chain staysextending rearward of the central hub, the pair of chain stays including(i) a right chain stay terminating with a right dropout and (ii) a leftchain stay terminating with a left dropout; a motor coupled to the mountsuch that the motor is positioned at least partially underneath theinternal cavity; a battery pack extending at least partially into theinternal cavity of the central hub and positioned at least partiallydirectly above the motor, the battery pack configured to power themotor; and a key interface supported by the mount and facing laterallyoutward therefrom, wherein engaging the key interface releases thebattery pack to facilitate lifting the battery pack upward to remove thebattery pack from the frame.
 19. The bicycle of claim 18, furthercomprising a cover extending over the opening to at least partiallyenclose the internal cavity, the cover having an exterior surface with afirst portion extending along the down tube and a second portionextending along the central hub such that the first portion is angledrelative to the second portion and substantially matches a curvedprofile of a transition of the frame between the down tube and thecentral hub along the upper surface.
 20. The bicycle of claim 19,wherein the cover is a top portion of the battery pack.